Great stuff David. I'd add some emphasis to #4, like a 4A.  The things we control make all the difference.  It's tempting to blame our circumstances for our situation. Our circumstances constrain us, but they don't define us.  We still define ourselves and our responses. Our attitude, which you mention, is more powerful than we appreciate. Our actions matter and our attitude enables us to take action when everyone else would quit.  We're not victims, and I know you agree with that. We control very little, but what we control matters a lot!

Thanks for the great post!