We somehow think that our attitudes are mere spontaneous reactions to what is going on around us.  We seldom think about choosing our attitude.  We can meet harshness with harshness, hostility with hostility, but where does that get us?  When we intentionally build into our personality humility, gentleness, kindness, love and caring, it will form a base for us to choose our attitudes aright.  For the followers of Christ, these qualities are not optional, they are essential.

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV)