When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. This is a phrase that has pulled at our psyche each time Murphy’s Law is in full swing intending to motivate us as victims. And it is because of this flaw in our nature that it has become one of the best known sayings around the world, with all its variations.
 

But have you ever wondered who invented the phrase?
 

Though it is Joan Collins of “Dynasty” fame that claims the use of the expression, more than likely it was the motivational writer and speaker Dale Carnegie who really said it first since he did live earlier than Ms. Collins.
 

Unfortunately it was never documented when Mr. Carnegie first uttered these words, but the original quote is said to be, “When fate hands you a lemon, make lemonade” and it has transformed more recently into a more modern adaptation that is now known by the millions. It is because this phrase fits so seamlessly with the rest of Dale Carnegie’s teachings and philosophies that makes him the most likely candidate as its author.
 

So when we make lemonade out of lemons, it reminds us that almost anything in this world is possible. That if we take an optimistic approach when looking at things, we can expect a more positive result.
 

Take a look at the lemon itself. Though it starts out as sour fruit, its main use can be turned into a positive flavoring agent in foods such as fish, salads and sauces. Actually in Italy you will find that its primary growth is for the consumption of a cold refreshing zesty liqueur called Limoncello. As you drive along the Amalfi coastline there are literally groves upon groves of lemon trees hugging the vast seaside hills that surround the many cliffside villages overlooking the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea.
 

And if we were to travel to an area in the southeastern part of France along the exquisite French Riviera known for its infamous beauty, there is a quaint little town called Menton that makes lemon floats.
 

Lemon floats you say? Is that like a root beer float? Uh, no.
 

It seems the area that encompasses the city of Menton grows so many lemons that they celebrate every year with a “Lemon Festival” featuring floats and displays decorated with lemons and other citrus fruits. It’s similar to the floats made for the Rose Parade only with lemons.
 

Take a look at these lemon-laced exhibits showcased at this year’s festival event.
 

 
So when life hands you a lemon…
 

That is, if something were to happen to you that you don’t like…use the next time to make something out of it that you do like. Such as…
 

Make Lemonade!
 
 

• L – Laughter – it’s the best medicine.
 

• E – Embrace others and surround yourself with those who want you to thrive.
 

• M – Move forward with fixed focus making a tangible difference everyday.
 

• O – Open your mind and your heart.
 

• N – Notice all the things in your life to be grateful for.
 

• A – Adjust your attitude and expectations.
 

• D – Decide to challenge your circumstances and do things for others.
 

• E – Evaluate your actions instead of blaming others avoiding “victim” mode.
 
 

Yes, make lemonade out of the lemons in your life!
 
 

So what do you think? How do you view the many lemons in your life? When life throws you a lemon, what inspires you to make lemonade? And what do you find floats your lemon float?
 
 
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Thank you for your many thoughts and fine comments everyone!
Karen