Letter from my father on Adversity

A while back my father sent my siblings and I a letter. I thought I would share it with everyone.

Kids,
Many times in our life , adversity hits us square in the face. We all have excuses. When it comes right down to it, we all have it made. Attitude can conquer adversity every time.

The Navy seals are taught that survival is determined by 3 factors. 1) Having the stills to use the tools available, 2) having those tools, and 3) the will and determination to survive. the Navy instructors say survival is 80% will and determination and the 20% the other 2 elements.

Having a positive attitude is so powerful for you but also for people around you. When you look back at the Reagan era, they say his optimistic attitude spread across the country. Roosevelt and Churchill knew the same thing. They kept a smile on their faces and a determined look. Look at the old pictures of them. Optimism grows hope. Having the ability to create positive outcomes from negative events can be as powerful skill as anything else. In other words of an optimist, mistakes become experience, letdowns become learning, crisis becomes challenge, and adversity becomes opportunity. Remember the old saying....it's your attitude, not your aptitude, that determines your altitude.

Conquering adversity is all about heart. Whenever you think the problem is "out there", that thought is the problem. You become disempowered and a slave. Conquering adversity is as rewarding as anything.

I'll stop rambling on. Yesterday, I saw this video and thought it would be good for yall to see it. You all definitely have challenges but look at this guy. When you want to have a pitty moment, run this little video. It might help to inspire you.

Remember, we love yall. We are your parachute packers.

Love,

Dad

Below is the video he sent