We have been given a precious gift: the gift of choice. I don't always have control of circumstances and situations, but I have the ability to choose how I will respond or react to them. I can turn to the Lord or to act independently. I can choose to be optimistic or pessimistic. I can choose to embrace this particular cross or to butt my head against it. With either choice there are consequences, which will be ultimately beneficial or destructive for me. The choice is mine. God not only gives me the gift but also the grace to make the right choice. He desires my ultimate happiness.