Over the last few weeks in our Year Level Meetings, I have been speaking with our students about the Calvary value of Goodness: “I will keep a right attitude at all times.” Like most matters of the heart, as we teach these concepts to our students, I often find myself asking the same question as a teacher, husband, and dad: Am I keeping a right attitude at all times?

The honest answer is no. But I encourage myself in the same way I encourage our students — becoming more like Jesus is not easy. However, if I am making better choices today and moving closer to that goal than I was yesterday, then I am on the right track.

There are many things in life I do not get to choose — paying taxes, driving the speed limit, or even how my football team performs on the weekend — but one thing I am completely in control of is my attitude. I once heard the quote, “Your attitude determines your altitude.” In other words, the attitude I choose each morning shapes the course of my day. A positive or negative attitude becomes the filter through which I experience everything else.

I explained this idea to our students by comparing attitude to a playlist. When we listen to our favourite songs, our mood and demeanour can instantly change. Music has the power to lift our heads and transform how we feel. In the same way, if the soundtrack in my mind is filled with negativity — “I can’t do this,” “life is unfair,” “things will never improve” — then it is no surprise when my day seems to go from bad to worse.

Alternatively, when I begin my day with gratitude — thankful for what I have and for the blessings God has given me — my perspective changes. I may still face challenges, but I know I have people around me who are willing to help, gifts and abilities to solve problems, and faith in a God who promises never to leave or forsake me. With that mindset, why can’t my day go from strength to strength?

Colossians 3:2 reminds us to “set our minds on things above, not on earthly things.” The challenge is that choosing positivity and gratitude is not automatic; it is a daily decision.

Having the right attitude does not mean we are never discouraged by life’s trials. It does not mean we hide our struggles or pretend everything is fine when it isn’t. We are still called to share our burdens with others and seek prayer, encouragement, and support when needed. Having the right attitude is not about forcing positivity or trying to control circumstances through our own efforts. Rather, a right attitude flows from having the right heart.

Paul writes, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). Even though Jesus had every right to hold onto His privileges as the eternal Son of God, He humbled Himself and became obedient, even to death on a cross. Jesus modelled a mindset of humility and obedience, and through Him, we can choose that same attitude each day.

Even when there are many reasons to complain or become negative, we can still choose where we seek refreshment. Do we lower our buckets into the well of Living Water, drawing up truth and hope that nourish our souls, or do we look elsewhere for satisfaction and perspective? Responding to life’s challenges with the right attitude requires intentionality, because our natural tendency is often to complain. We need Jesus’ help to renew our hearts and minds, and we find that help in His Word.

Have a blessed week,

Martin Vucetic

Director of Secondary