Positive Energy

Keeping your energy positive can make all the difference in the world. A high vibration and positive mindset can help you avoid adverse situations and navigate life with greater ease. For instance, as a rideshare driver in a bustling city like Atlanta, I often encounter road rage. However, I've noticed that when I maintain a positive attitude, I’m far less likely to attract those negative encounters. On the other hand, leaning toward negativity seems to invite unfavorable situations, almost as if our energy dictates our experiences.

Reflecting on my upbringing in Dallas, Texas, during the 1960s, I recall a profound lesson my father taught me amidst the challenges of the Jim Crow era. When I was just a young boy, my father took me to an ice-skating rink where he worked part-time. At a time when “colored” and “white” water fountains stood side by side, he carefully checked his surroundings, lifted me, and let me drink from the "white" fountain. Then, he said, “Tastes the same, doesn’t it?” That moment stayed with me. It took years to fully understand his message: I was just as good as anyone, regardless of skin color. My parents reinforced this belief throughout my childhood, teaching me that racism was a construct that didn’t define my worth or dictate my path.

This mindset shaped my experiences growing up, even in a deeply segregated society. For example, during my twenties, I drove a flashy red Trans Am in Dallas and frequently sped around the city. I was often stopped by the police, yet not once was I asked to step out of the car or treated poorly. While others may have faced harsher outcomes in similar situations, I believe my energy and outlook played a role in avoiding conflict. Even in the presence of systemic racism, a positive energy can act as a shield, steering us away from hostility and negativity.

Racism, unfortunately, remains alive and well, even as we step into 2025. Yet, I’ve learned that if you don’t lean into that energy or expectation, you’re less likely to encounter it. Now in my sixties, I find that interactions with law enforcement are often respectful. Officers see an older man who isn’t causing trouble and usually let me off with a warning. Though I avoid tickets as much as possible, these experiences remind me how far a calm demeanor and positive attitude can go in diffusing potential conflict.

This philosophy extends to my work as a rideshare driver. In the past, I sometimes reacted poorly when other drivers became hostile. If someone honked at me or flipped me off for a driving mistake, I’d return the gesture with equal frustration. Over time, however, I realized that mirroring negativity only invited more of the same. Spiritual growth and maturity taught me to let those moments pass without reaction. Now, when someone honks or makes a rude gesture, I either ignore it or keep moving without engaging. As I’ve adopted this approach, I’ve noticed those situations happen far less often.

One of the challenges of rideshare driving is navigating the constant pressure of traffic and app directions. Sometimes, I’ve had to make quick lane changes to reach a destination, inadvertently cutting someone off. Early on, I’d try to justify my actions or retaliate against other drivers’ anger. But over time, I learned that staying calm, apologizing mentally, and focusing on the task at hand kept my energy positive and defused tense moments. The calmer I’ve become, the fewer confrontations I experience on the road.

The key lesson I’ve learned is that positive energy doesn’t just affect your mood; it shapes your reality. Whether dealing with road rage, systemic challenges, or daily stressors, maintaining a high vibration helps you avoid unnecessary drama. Life will always present challenges, but how you respond makes all the difference.

By staying grounded in positivity, you create a protective barrier against negativity. This isn’t to say challenges won’t arise, but your response determines whether those situations escalate or dissipate. Choose peace, maturity, and positive energy, and you’ll find that life becomes smoother, calmer, and far more fulfilling.