One of my favorite daytime TV shows is “The Doctors.” On a recent episode, Montel Williams appeared with a young woman named Alex who is dealing with the disabling condition of dystonia which causes involuntary muscle contractions which are both awkward and embarrassing. Alex used to be a dance instructor and, due to this condition, had basically given up on a very important part of her life.

Montel Williams, himself a victim of multiple sclerosis (MS), visited with Alex who had not left her home for over a year. He shared his personal struggles and advised her not to let the disease control her life and destroy her spirit. Then, he took her out for her first outing and together they walked down Rodeo Drive. Although some people stared, most people treated them just as they did everyone else.

Now Alex is taking back her personal power over this disease and has stated that she will start getting back into her normal activities. She has learned that a positive attitude can be one of your best weapons against health challenges.

I was inspired just watching Alex on the program because it was obvious how frustrating and irritating dystonia is. Whenever I feel like I’m having a rough time physically, I will remember her and how she is facing life. If she can do it, surely I who have no disabling embarrassing condition can face my life head on. The power of positive living never ceases to amaze me.