Inspiration Archives: Chet McDoniel

On January 5th, 1980, I was born with no arms and shortened legs. Doctors do not know what happened, and no explanation can be given. I spent many young years of my life wanting to know why. I found that search fruitless, and instead have dedicated my life to telling others how live life to the fullest, despite the situation that life has thrown their way. I've learned many steps to happiness in life, and here are three that I feel very strongly about!

Change Your Perspective

We've all heard the question, "is the glass half empty or half full?" The funniest answer I've heard was, "I don't even HAVE a glass!" Actually, while that was funny, I also found it very sad. You see, I've found one of the easiest courses to a happy life is simply to see the good, positive aspects of every situation.

Even the most dire of situations has a positive lining, you just have to train yourself to look for it. Myself, I don't have arms. But, there are many things in life for which being handicapped actually works to my benefit. My handicap allows me to get attention, so that I may spread happiness to others. There's always a silver lining, you just have to look for it.

Invest Yourself in Other People

People often ask me what my greatest joy in life is...and it's an easy answer for me. My greatest joy in life is seeing other people uplifted, encouraged, and challenged to live a full, happy life. Think about Christmas or birthday parties. What is so enjoyable about them? For me, at least, it is the giving of gifts and watching the recipient's face when they open the gift. Deep down inside, we have a longing to see other people happy and uplifted.

So, stop being so interested in yourself, and join a service organization...or just perform random acts of kindness...or invest your time into the life of a friend who's struggling. I guarantee you, when you focus on other people, your true happiness can be attained.

CHOOSE to Be Happy

I want to be perfectly clear about this. My disability could easily make me a grumpy person. I have aches and pains that are a daily reminder that my body is not whole. Happiness does not come automatically. In fact, I believe it is a choice that has to be made daily.

I tell audiences during every one of my talks that I have a choice every day on how I wake up. On one side of the bed is a life of whining, misery, and pity, and even though there have been days when I've chosen that side...it cannot be the life I choose. That side of life is not worth living, and that kind of attitude accomplishes NOTHING!

So, the only side that I can choose is the side where I put on a smile and choose happiness. I know that God is in control and that His love will sustain me throughout the day, the week, the year and my entire life...no matter what occurs. Happiness does not come easily. It is a daily choice, and one that I think has to be made in order to live an incredible life.

Choose to live a happy life starting right now! You can do it! I know you can...because I have.