Monday, June 2, 2008

THE POWER OF THOUGHT

Is there power to our thoughts? I believe so. And I am not alone.

I belong to a group that meets weekly. For a while, my attitude was eroding. Each week, I felt more frustrated with someone or something in the meeting. Then, before the meeting, I began to expect to be unhappy. It began to snowball. I considered resigning from the group. Then, I decided before I gave up to come in for at least two weeks. I would be there on time, with a smile, and expect the best. I would ignore the things that were bothering me. Amazingly, there was an immediate effect of the group; there were less irritants to me and everyone and everything started working more smoothly. I know that my thoughts changed my reactions. My changed reactions changed others' behaviors.

There is a book titled "The Intention Experiment" The book is all about how science is beginning to prove that our thoughts affect our environment. The main experiment was one where volunteers throughout the world concentrated on the water systems of our planet. The volunteers were worldwide. The day before this was to occur, samples were taken from various water sources. Then, the volunteers, globally, sent their kind and healing thoughts to the waters. Water samples were taken from the same water sources a day later. The second water samples were cleaner, healthier water. If you feel skeptical about this, check out the book; the experimenters actually asked people who didn't believe in this to be controllers and verify the results.

Finally, most importantly, I cite the Bible. Philipians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Spend some time today to think about what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. I think you will find your day just a little brighter, yourself a little more productive and positive.

Saturday, May 17, 2008

I love Teens

I love my teens. (OK, this includes my youngest daughter, who is not quite a teen--but love her anyway.) There seems to be so much negative press about teens. And yes, I'm guilty of making poor jokes about teenagers. But the truth is, I love the hope, the optimism, the energy and the passion of teenagers. Yes, their lives are truly before them and this is an awesome time for them. I don't believe it is any easier being a teenager than it ever was. Especially if the teenager doesn't want to be what everyone else is; she wants to be herself. And, of course, herself is often what doesn't seem to be "normal" or whatever. The tough part for many kids to understand is that all of us have felt this pressure to hide ourselves or fight the world. But my small circle of teens are awesome in part because they are developing their courage to be themselves within and in spite of their world. I truly admire, respect and love these gals. I love the enthusiasm for discussing moral issues. I love their unique voices and viewpoints. Although I can't always hear it when they all talk at once, I love to hear what they're thinking. Did I say I love my teens?! You go girls! You rock! You're awesome and the best of the world today.