Close menu

Tom Sawyer

I love stories. I’ve just re-read Pollyanna. And it’s proof that, yes, you can be too happy! Her catch-phrase “there’s always something to be glad about” is very upbeat and positive. On first or second hearing that is! The lesson from Pollyanna is to turn it down a bit. When you’re so positive that people want to punch your lights out, you’re doing it wrong!

Tom Sawyer got it just about right. There’s a classic chapter where Tom uses the power of positivity to influence his chums. Tom’s aunt asks him to whitewash the fence. His friends call by and Tom is seen applying the paint with gusto, pretending to enjoy the chore. “Do you call this work?” Tom tells his mates. “Does a boy get a chance to whitewash a fence every day?”

Armed with this new information his friends discover the joys of whitewashing a fence. Before long, Tom’s friends are paying him for the privilege as well as deriving real pleasure from the task!

I reckon Tom’s a 2%er. He transformed a negative experience into a positive one. He’s influenced those around him in a positive way. In short, his enthusiasm is infectious. And I reckon there’s a message in there for all of us. Whatever job you are attending to right now, do it with passion, energy and enthusiasm. And when you get home, practice parenting in the same vein. You’ll feel great…and so will those around you

Happy whitewashing! A