Strengths are built-in capacities for certain thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Everyone has these capacities to one degree or another. Our particular pattern of strengths is part of what makes us unique.

When we play from our strengths, we're likely to feel more energetic and perform better than when trying to use a capacity that comes less naturally. For example, one person trying to influence a local condo board to do the right thing might have the strength to speak up forcefully and clearly at a general meeting despite the almost-universal fear of public speaking. Another person strong in team-building might feel uncomfortable speaking out in a meeting but could successfully build consensus among owners, and others to weigh the issue and come to a decision.

Positive emotions have been linked with better health, longer life, and greater well-being in numerous scientific studies. On the other hand, chronic anger, worry, and hostility increase the risk of developing heart disease, as people react to these feelings with raised blood pressure and stiffening of blood vessels. But it isn’t easy to maintain a healthy, positive emotional state.

Playland hosts Veterans Appreciation Day on Sunday, May 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

More than 4,000 veterans, service members and their families are expected to attend the event, which includes a barbecue lunch hosted by the Westchester County Veterans Service Agency, and co-sponsored by Pepe Auto Group and DeBartolo Landscaping of New Rochelle.

Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino will welcome the veterans with a memorial tribute at approximately 11:45 a.m. on the Music Tower Stage.