Today I got a voicemail from one of our non-profit clients.  He has been having major issues with his mortgage and credit cards for a long time and has been unable to save even the small amounts needed to complete the settlements being negotiated.

On his voicemail he described how recently he went through a major medical trauma that was almost fatal.  Luckily he was found by a passerby, unconscious in a snowbank, or most likely he would not be around to worry about his outstanding debt obligations.  The result of his misfortune is even more medical debts and the inability to work in the future due to the effects of extreme exposure to cold and the original life threatening condition.

This is one of the most easy going clients I have been able to work with through my time at Second Wind and even most of this type of client would be crushed by depression by now.  His future is a mountain of problems that grow with every passing day and he now has to deal with what are most likely, permanent, disabling conditions.  The gentlemen left the end of the message by thanking us for the work we do on his behalf, despite his inability to see the fruition of that work or get the benefits of settled debts to this point.

This is a lesson I wish more people, myself included, would take to heart.  Life is hard enough for most people no matter the economic situation of the country.  Looking at the negatives and problems all around will make you feel lost, alone, and helpless.  It feels like there are enemies or obstacles in every direction and no end to the hardships in sight.  This client never seems to feel that way and with every call or new development, good or bad, he simply thanks us for our work and is actually thankful for everything he has.  He lives with less than most, but he keeps a happy demeanor and keeps moving forward.

Pick a problem and work to think of the solution, not the problem.  Move forward and do it with a smile.  Just remember that you have choices no matter what the situation.

It is always a good day when you are on the right side of the grass.