We do have both, and it is in our control to focus on one or the other. Obstacles and disadvantages abound in our lives, and sadly enough, some people carry them all the way to their graves. Others battle against disadvantages and even turn them into advantages because, in spite of them, they rise to live full, happy and successful lives.

Helen Keller was born blind and handicapped more than most—yet she gave the world poetry, which cheered people of all walks of life. The lesson is an old one. Look for the silver lining, look for the good things in each day, focus on that which builds and edifies and then the dark and negative clouds that do exist will move to the side. We become what we think in our innermost self (Proverbs 23:7).