Perspective is a choice. The decision is hardest when our expectations do not match the reality we are facing. We sometimes feel like these kinds of situations victimize us, stealing our choices away. But they do not. They just provide the context for our choices.
If we find ourselves stuck in traffic, there are two ways to perceive.
One is frustration. We are angered that the world did not meet the expectation of circumstances to which we are entitled. We cannot control our circumstances, so we react in anger. We decide that being mad at other drivers and poor road conditions and the city infrastructure is the proper perspective. In a sad sort of way, we decide that since we can’t control the traffic, we will instead destroy our joy, for that is something we do control.
The other option is to see the traffic jam as a blessing. Take the unforeseen opportunity to pray, to make a phone call to a friend, or just take a deep breath. See the people as comrades, fellow humans, also trying to make their way in this world. Understand that others have plans and that sometimes interruptions are opportunities.
Nothing can be done to change the circumstances.. But your perspective can change and your choices can be made.
“…in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
– Romans 8:37-39