#iCONVICTION – Setting the Tone

I am convinced that no matter what happens during my day that my attitude is what sets the tone for me to be bitter or better. My attitude is how people view me and ultimately define me, and it’s that disposition that allows others to see what is going on inside of me.
You cannot fake an attitude, nor can your body language hide it. I remember when I was in prison, writing my daily blog, and my mom would report to me that some people commented that my peaceful persona must be me “putting on a good face,” in other words, “faking it!”
And there were various times in prison where inmates would admit to me that they were waiting for me to show my real attitude when things went south.  They said it was just a matter of time. 
But I knew the importance of setting my ‘attitude’ each morning when my knees hit the floor renewing my mind on the power of God and His influence on my mindset.  And frankly, as time progressed, the inmates realized that you can’t fake real.
Attitude is the state of our mind and heart showing through, and our attitudes are usually the first impressions that last—especially when the going gets tough. Too often we allow too many uncontrollable factors to affect our attitude and demeanor. 
Instead of having the attitude to overcome the trying circumstances, we automatically settle with the attitude to succumb to trying circumstances.  Our attitudes are a choice, and nobody can make it for us.  It is more important than our accomplishments, our resumes, and even our IQ.
You can have all the riches and talents in the world, but without a rich attitude that complements your God-given talents, you have nothing. Your attitude is the evidence of what you believe. If I say, “God is good,” my attitude is the proof that validates my words.
Likewise, the attitude that we choose is responsible for our worry or our worship; it affects our emotional stress or success.  I am convinced that no matter what obstacle one may face, that attitude is the first thing that must be adjusted to adapt and advance. 
It is the constant that we control and will speak loudly to those close to us as the outward expression of our inward character.  Our attitudes can make us or break us, and especially reveal us; they can progress us or digress us. Our attitudes can be the main reason people become encouraged, inspired, or motivated; and it is the same reason some are disgusted, appalled, or lose heart.
It is very easy to see that our actions are the unfolding of our attitudes. 
With all that being said, there are only four types of attitudes in this world: the attitude that sets the tone, the attitude that is set by the tone, the attitude that watches the tone being set, and the attitude that says, “What tone?”
Which one are you?
Matthew Maher is a former professional athlete and author of the newly released book U MAY B THE ONLY BIBLE SOMEBODY READS: R U LEGIBLE? His “Decisions Determine Destiny” assemblies are funded by State Farm and service youth in the tri-state area. He is also the Director of Student Ministries at Coastal Christian Ocean City. He served four years and seven months in N.J. State prison and was released August 2014. You can learn more atwww.themattmaherstory.com. Follow him on Twitter @mattmaherstory and on Instagram @matthewmaher7.