About once a week I trek to my favorite Chinese restaurant for some crispy duck, sweet and sour shrimp, and a dollop of inspiration.

Of course, a bright and shining moment comes when I am presented with sliced mandarin oranges and a fortune cookie.

And the check is presented, too, but I hardly notice, because Im too busy indulging my sweet tooth, anticipating an even sweeter fortune to come.

Most of us regard those little pieces of paper as worthless shards, but they can be more, with a little imagination.

Admittedly, some fortunes are dumb and nearly incomprehensible. I suspect the soothsayer gets tired of being so cheerful and optimistic, and cynically inserts a prediction that is notably confusing, or hopelessly ambiguous.

But most fortunes are plucky, upbeat propositions, such as my recent one, which is now adorning my desk, in my office:

While times may seem difficult, your future forecasts a quick turnaround.

Thats beautiful, isnt it?

And that should be turned into an affirmation or two, dont you think?

Times only seem difficult, could be one of them. Repeating this, silently or aloud, could be valuable in tough circumstances.

And how is this one:

A quick turnaround is in my future!

See, there is wisdom to be found in those cookies, so eat out more often!