Is it the End of the World as we know it?

     Is that how you think of life these days? There seems to be nothing in the news that talks about the positive things that the future holds for us. Is it because these are terrible times or is it because we are lead to believe these are terrible times? The Internet, newspapers and TV news media runs on bad news, actually it thrives on bad news. This has always been the case but we hear it 24/7, which wasn't the case prior to the Internet. I've always tried to be positive but it seems hard, when we are constantly bombarded with bad news.

     In truth everyday is the end of the world, as we know it, because it is always changing. But don't take this as a negative, because all change is not bad. In fact many changes are good even though we may not realize it at the time.

     I recently started reading a new book called Progress by Johan Norberg. The book takes a positive look at our current times, reflects back on "The good old days." The author points out ten reasons to be thankful for living in today's world. As it turns out "The good old days" weren't that good for many people. It's easy for us to remember the past with fond memories. I do this frequently but the mind is funny in that way, erasing the bad memories and pushing the good memories to the forefront.

     Although I've just started reading this book, I like the positive approach it takes. I feel like it has given me a shot of positivity that I needed. The book gives facts about the past that we may not be aware of unless you are a history buff. Looking at these facts it's not hard to see that we are much better off than our ancestors.

     There is one quote in the first chapter that seems particularly appropriate this year.

"Whoever could make two ears of corn, or two blades of grass, to grow upon a spot of ground, where only one grew before, would deserve better of mankind, and do more essential service to his country, than the whole race of politicians put together." Jonathan Swift

     I believe this book, Progress by Johan Norberg should be recommended reading for all people that feel a little depressed with life at times. It might just be the right medicine you need to change your outlook. "Just Saying..."