Here is something that you can try just for fun.
Close your eyes and then walk a straight line, with one foot placed directly in front of the other. Be careful, because you might fall over. It is not that easy for everyone to do.
Maintaining a balance in all aspects of our lives, at all times, is extremely important.
Physical balance is only one part of the balancing act in our lives. There is also our mental, emotional and spiritual balance that must be taken into consideration.
Is your lifestyle in healthy balance? If not, why not?
Interestingly, our minds and thought processes play an important part in the total picture of balance, as do various other aspects of our general health and the environment in which we live.
We instinctively know when something is out of balance, even though we may not necessarily know how to fix it.
We often try to regain our balance and may even succeed, at times. At other times, our efforts only make things worse, particularly when we knowingly or unknowingly turn to something that may be potentially harmful to us.
Our minds continually lead us towards perfecting the greater picture of balance, in many different ways. Perhaps discovering and examining some of these ways further, might help us individually and collectively, to restore the balance in our lives.
I bet you never thought of your life as a balancing act. It is.
Just another thought for the day.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Love and Hate Pathways
If our thoughts were truly positive in their orientation, meaning that we always thought in terms of love or in a positive light, there would be no room for hate in our thought processes.
Somehow, that is not so.
When we begin to look at how we feel, we soon find out that we have a whole gamut of emotions, ranging from positive to negative. We have the ability to love or to hate in response to our thought processes. Our emotions are closely linked to our thinking.
We are blessed in being able to choose how we emote or express our motions. We are able to express various levels of emotion in response to how we think. Our emotional expression can also be controlled, at least to a certain extent.
Our minds are like a magnificent map, as the pathways of our thoughts and emotions work in conjunction with one another.
Just for fun, note your own thoughts in relation to your love or hate relationships. You are the one in control of them both and you can think in a positive way, express love as an emotion, instead of hate and perhaps save yourself and others a lot of grief.
Try it.
Somehow, that is not so.
When we begin to look at how we feel, we soon find out that we have a whole gamut of emotions, ranging from positive to negative. We have the ability to love or to hate in response to our thought processes. Our emotions are closely linked to our thinking.
We are blessed in being able to choose how we emote or express our motions. We are able to express various levels of emotion in response to how we think. Our emotional expression can also be controlled, at least to a certain extent.
Our minds are like a magnificent map, as the pathways of our thoughts and emotions work in conjunction with one another.
Just for fun, note your own thoughts in relation to your love or hate relationships. You are the one in control of them both and you can think in a positive way, express love as an emotion, instead of hate and perhaps save yourself and others a lot of grief.
Try it.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Decision Making
We often make decisions on the spur of the moment, but not always. There are times when we stop and think seriously about something, before acting upon it.
The decision about whether to act or not to act, depends a great deal on our individual thought processes. We weigh the various aspects of our motivational thoughts including the pros and cons of action or inaction, as well as looking at the possible consequences of our decision in that regard.
Thinking can appear to be an overwhelming process at times, particularly when we are busy, or when it feels that we are in a brain 'overload' situation and have too much to deal with at that particular time.
That happens to everyone.
Let's face it. We cannot think about everything simultaneously, or act upon all of the things that motivate us, at the same time.
Our minds are extremely interesting in that they allow us to prioritize what we think about and decide to act upon. In other words, we have a selective thought processing system in our minds that allows us to make decisions.
The decision making process is an amazing part of the ongoing activity in our minds, as it also allows us to act in terms of priority. We can decide to act on one motivational thought at one time and another later.
We can also choose not to think about something until later, then recall it and think it through properly. Or we can just forget about it, if it is not something that is a priority to us. What we decide to think about or not think about, then act upon or not act upon, is up to us.
Do we have an on and off button for our thought processes?
In other words, can we just shut the thought process switch off and turn it back on later? Probably not a button, as such.
Perhaps the thought process switch is turned off in terms of consciousness and moral conscience responses, in those who choose to think about something else, other than that which needs to be acted upon.
Maybe there are times when some people just don't think at all?
Those who indulge in the abuse of alcohol, nicotine and substances of other kinds, may be turning off their thought processes, or altering their thinking in such a way that it does not allow or enable them to respond to motivation, even when they should.
The consequences of such inaction can be disastrous.
Individually and collectively, there are times when history records our decisions, coupled with our action or non-action. Perhaps that is why it is often wise to 'think twice' before making a decision about whether to act or not to act on motivational thoughts.
The decision about whether to act or not to act, depends a great deal on our individual thought processes. We weigh the various aspects of our motivational thoughts including the pros and cons of action or inaction, as well as looking at the possible consequences of our decision in that regard.
Thinking can appear to be an overwhelming process at times, particularly when we are busy, or when it feels that we are in a brain 'overload' situation and have too much to deal with at that particular time.
That happens to everyone.
Let's face it. We cannot think about everything simultaneously, or act upon all of the things that motivate us, at the same time.
Our minds are extremely interesting in that they allow us to prioritize what we think about and decide to act upon. In other words, we have a selective thought processing system in our minds that allows us to make decisions.
The decision making process is an amazing part of the ongoing activity in our minds, as it also allows us to act in terms of priority. We can decide to act on one motivational thought at one time and another later.
We can also choose not to think about something until later, then recall it and think it through properly. Or we can just forget about it, if it is not something that is a priority to us. What we decide to think about or not think about, then act upon or not act upon, is up to us.
Do we have an on and off button for our thought processes?
In other words, can we just shut the thought process switch off and turn it back on later? Probably not a button, as such.
Perhaps the thought process switch is turned off in terms of consciousness and moral conscience responses, in those who choose to think about something else, other than that which needs to be acted upon.
Maybe there are times when some people just don't think at all?
Those who indulge in the abuse of alcohol, nicotine and substances of other kinds, may be turning off their thought processes, or altering their thinking in such a way that it does not allow or enable them to respond to motivation, even when they should.
The consequences of such inaction can be disastrous.
Individually and collectively, there are times when history records our decisions, coupled with our action or non-action. Perhaps that is why it is often wise to 'think twice' before making a decision about whether to act or not to act on motivational thoughts.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
The Simple and the Complex
The ability that our thinking processes demonstrate with respect to sorting things out is virtually amazing, at times.
We can be aware of something relatively simple and have no difficulty grasping what it is. Suddenly, we realize that it has the potential to be, or to become, something more complex. We have the capacity to cope with the simple and the complex individually, as well as simultaneously.
For example, we can look at a Sudoku game in a book, or on a computer screen and instantly see, as well as comprehend the numbers posted there. We recognize it for what it is. That seems simple enough. Then, our minds switch over to 'game' mode, as we begin to fill in the missing numbers.
Or we have the concept of a 'stick man' in our minds. Suddenly, it becomes the framework for a sketch of a man.
Note that in conjunction with the simple and the complex thoughts in our minds, other talents, skills and abilities begin to surface, as well. Our mathematical skills surface in the game of Sudoku. When drawing, our artistic skills come to the forefront. Perhaps both of them draw from our memory banks.
We might wonder where these additional skills come from at that particular moment in time. Perhaps both of them have been dormant and are only challenged under the right circumstances.
What does this tell us?
Maybe we should keep challenging ourselves because motivational challenges awaken that which lies dormant in our minds.
What is your challenge of the day?
Is it something simple, complex, or does it have the potential for both? Can you take it even further and explore the other realms of your mind, at the same time?
Maybe you could and should act on it.
We can be aware of something relatively simple and have no difficulty grasping what it is. Suddenly, we realize that it has the potential to be, or to become, something more complex. We have the capacity to cope with the simple and the complex individually, as well as simultaneously.
For example, we can look at a Sudoku game in a book, or on a computer screen and instantly see, as well as comprehend the numbers posted there. We recognize it for what it is. That seems simple enough. Then, our minds switch over to 'game' mode, as we begin to fill in the missing numbers.
Or we have the concept of a 'stick man' in our minds. Suddenly, it becomes the framework for a sketch of a man.
Note that in conjunction with the simple and the complex thoughts in our minds, other talents, skills and abilities begin to surface, as well. Our mathematical skills surface in the game of Sudoku. When drawing, our artistic skills come to the forefront. Perhaps both of them draw from our memory banks.
We might wonder where these additional skills come from at that particular moment in time. Perhaps both of them have been dormant and are only challenged under the right circumstances.
What does this tell us?
Maybe we should keep challenging ourselves because motivational challenges awaken that which lies dormant in our minds.
What is your challenge of the day?
Is it something simple, complex, or does it have the potential for both? Can you take it even further and explore the other realms of your mind, at the same time?
Maybe you could and should act on it.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
An Open Door
Miraculously, we get out of bed every morning, with an 'open door' to new thoughts.
Nothing is 'set in stone' or 'fixed' in our minds, in such a way that we have to think specific thoughts, at any particular time of a new day.
Is that not a good thing?
Whatever we choose to think is entirely up to us. This is not stating that people, specific events or a multiplicity of other things, will not influence how we think, feel and react that day.
Imagine a man trying to create a mind with total freedom of thought like that.
It would appear to be an impossibility for man and yet Matthew 19:26 tells us "...with God, all things are possible."
We open doorways to new thoughts in many different ways, often allowing our thoughts to go whatever direction they choose. We can also close our minds to certain thoughts or thought processes, if we prefer to do so. Sometimes, we do that, even unknowingly.
We can also choose to worship our minds, the power of our minds and our own thought processes, or our Creator. Opening our minds to the potential of thought processes that function in the realm of possibility, gives us more and more potential open doors, every day.
Being locked into the realm of impossibility is no fun. Closing our minds, closes doors and brings an end to possibility beyond that which is only human.
Found an new, open door of thought?
We can choose whether or not we want to enter that new, open door of thought. There is lots of room for exploration, if we just have the courage to step inside.
Life is an open door.
Explore it fully and enjoy it.
Nothing is 'set in stone' or 'fixed' in our minds, in such a way that we have to think specific thoughts, at any particular time of a new day.
Is that not a good thing?
Whatever we choose to think is entirely up to us. This is not stating that people, specific events or a multiplicity of other things, will not influence how we think, feel and react that day.
Imagine a man trying to create a mind with total freedom of thought like that.
It would appear to be an impossibility for man and yet Matthew 19:26 tells us "...with God, all things are possible."
We open doorways to new thoughts in many different ways, often allowing our thoughts to go whatever direction they choose. We can also close our minds to certain thoughts or thought processes, if we prefer to do so. Sometimes, we do that, even unknowingly.
We can also choose to worship our minds, the power of our minds and our own thought processes, or our Creator. Opening our minds to the potential of thought processes that function in the realm of possibility, gives us more and more potential open doors, every day.
Being locked into the realm of impossibility is no fun. Closing our minds, closes doors and brings an end to possibility beyond that which is only human.
Found an new, open door of thought?
We can choose whether or not we want to enter that new, open door of thought. There is lots of room for exploration, if we just have the courage to step inside.
Life is an open door.
Explore it fully and enjoy it.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Weather
Ever wonder what we think about weather?
This morning dawned cold, wet and very windy. Tree branches were swaying every direction and they still are, a number of hours later. Gray clouds were piled high over the lake in the distance. Streaks of lighter colored clouds raced across the sky, to the south.
I had to hang onto the kitchen door on the north, when I opened it. That is how strong the wind was, at that particular moment in time. The wind could easily have torn the blind off, but I quickly raised it and managed to grab the door fast enough to keep it from banging against the railing.
Now, the sun is shining.
So much better, wouldn't you agree?
But, going outside briefly, it was still quite windy and cold.
How do our minds process all of that and give us total recall later?
Inside, I was not aware of the wind, other than an occasional gust now and then. The temperature was and still is warm in here, as the sun is coming in the living room patio door. There is peaceful, classical music playing in the background.
More total recall....perfect peace prevails.
Amazing, the power of our minds to register everything that has happened, is happening and process it according to the correct time frame.
What about the weather?
What do you think?
This morning dawned cold, wet and very windy. Tree branches were swaying every direction and they still are, a number of hours later. Gray clouds were piled high over the lake in the distance. Streaks of lighter colored clouds raced across the sky, to the south.
I had to hang onto the kitchen door on the north, when I opened it. That is how strong the wind was, at that particular moment in time. The wind could easily have torn the blind off, but I quickly raised it and managed to grab the door fast enough to keep it from banging against the railing.
Now, the sun is shining.
So much better, wouldn't you agree?
But, going outside briefly, it was still quite windy and cold.
How do our minds process all of that and give us total recall later?
Inside, I was not aware of the wind, other than an occasional gust now and then. The temperature was and still is warm in here, as the sun is coming in the living room patio door. There is peaceful, classical music playing in the background.
More total recall....perfect peace prevails.
Amazing, the power of our minds to register everything that has happened, is happening and process it according to the correct time frame.
What about the weather?
What do you think?
Friday, October 14, 2011
Panic Attacks
Ever have a sudden panic attack for no apparent reason? It can be a frightening experience for anyone.
Fear is a negative, emotional response to something that frightens us and the trigger behind panic attacks.
There are times when a person having a panic attack, does not know what he or she is afraid of.
For example, a man gets off the elevator on the fifteenth floor of a building and suddenly freezes mentally, emotionally and physically. He does not know why. Maybe he is experiencing a weird sensation related to the sudden change in elevation, but perhaps it has more to do with the reality of fear related to his pending job interview.
Fear is a protective mechanism that functions in our thought processes.
Three normal reactions to fear are fight, flight and paralysis. Depending upon the level of fear that we experience, it can warn us, protect us or result in paralysis leading to non-action.
Panic attacks result when fear becomes overwhelming, for whatever reason.
For example, an infant can experience a panic attack, when his or her parents turn off the light and leave the room. While there is really nothing for him or her to be afraid of, he or she senses a change in his or her environment.
A young child can panic when he or she sees a puppy coming towards him or her, as harmless as that puppy may be. Perhaps it is the movement that triggers his or her fear.
An older child may panic when he or she has to cross the street, even though there is no oncoming traffic. He or she may be recalling a previous, negative experience. A teenager can panic when he or she is confronted with a blind date, knowing that he or she is not ready to date yet.
A parent can have a panic attack, if suddenly a child is missing from his or her bed, even if that child is still in the room. An elderly patient may panic if he or she does not recognize his or her surroundings, or cannot find something.
It is important to recognize the difference between legitimate fears and non-legitimate fears, when it comes to panic attacks.
Mentally, we can understand the difference, as our thought processes are able to sort through what is going on in our minds, at any moment in time. Trusting our instincts and judgements is always important.
"Do not fear."
Some suggest that this is 'angel talk', but it is something to think about when experiencing a panic attack for whatever reason.
Recognize legitimate fears and those that are not and then re-act accordingly. Do not panic.
Fear is a negative, emotional response to something that frightens us and the trigger behind panic attacks.
There are times when a person having a panic attack, does not know what he or she is afraid of.
For example, a man gets off the elevator on the fifteenth floor of a building and suddenly freezes mentally, emotionally and physically. He does not know why. Maybe he is experiencing a weird sensation related to the sudden change in elevation, but perhaps it has more to do with the reality of fear related to his pending job interview.
Fear is a protective mechanism that functions in our thought processes.
Three normal reactions to fear are fight, flight and paralysis. Depending upon the level of fear that we experience, it can warn us, protect us or result in paralysis leading to non-action.
Panic attacks result when fear becomes overwhelming, for whatever reason.
For example, an infant can experience a panic attack, when his or her parents turn off the light and leave the room. While there is really nothing for him or her to be afraid of, he or she senses a change in his or her environment.
A young child can panic when he or she sees a puppy coming towards him or her, as harmless as that puppy may be. Perhaps it is the movement that triggers his or her fear.
An older child may panic when he or she has to cross the street, even though there is no oncoming traffic. He or she may be recalling a previous, negative experience. A teenager can panic when he or she is confronted with a blind date, knowing that he or she is not ready to date yet.
A parent can have a panic attack, if suddenly a child is missing from his or her bed, even if that child is still in the room. An elderly patient may panic if he or she does not recognize his or her surroundings, or cannot find something.
It is important to recognize the difference between legitimate fears and non-legitimate fears, when it comes to panic attacks.
Mentally, we can understand the difference, as our thought processes are able to sort through what is going on in our minds, at any moment in time. Trusting our instincts and judgements is always important.
"Do not fear."
Some suggest that this is 'angel talk', but it is something to think about when experiencing a panic attack for whatever reason.
Recognize legitimate fears and those that are not and then re-act accordingly. Do not panic.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Understanding Ourselves
Understanding ourselves may not always be easy, but it is certainly interesting to enter into a deep, contemplative mode in our thoughts and attempt a self-analysis.
Interestingly enough, we may or may not make notes, or even mental notes of our self-analysis.
It really does seem to matter whether we do or not, as the data remains in our thought processes, even though it may appear to be dormant or latent, at times. In other words, it is not always at the forefront of our thinking.
Normally, we have the ability to extract the same information any time we wish to do so. We can pull up that data again and again, if we choose. There is no limit on the number of times that we can think about something.
Even more astounding is the reality that if our thought processes are interrupted for some reason, we can return to those same thoughts again, whenever we have an opportunity to do so. We can turn on our contemplative mode, at any time. We can also exit out of it whenever.
Realizing that our minds and thoughts are virtually amazing, in so many different ways, we begin to see how important it is that we stay mentally healthy and protect ourselves from anything that might alter our minds, or our ability to function in terms of our thought processes.
Just some thoughts to think about, for those who think it is all right to use mind- altering drugs. Once the damage is done to our brains, it is done. Can our minds be restored, once damaged? Maybe not.
Enjoy that contemplative mode? Do not do anything that might destroy it as it might be gone forever if you do.
Interestingly enough, we may or may not make notes, or even mental notes of our self-analysis.
It really does seem to matter whether we do or not, as the data remains in our thought processes, even though it may appear to be dormant or latent, at times. In other words, it is not always at the forefront of our thinking.
Normally, we have the ability to extract the same information any time we wish to do so. We can pull up that data again and again, if we choose. There is no limit on the number of times that we can think about something.
Even more astounding is the reality that if our thought processes are interrupted for some reason, we can return to those same thoughts again, whenever we have an opportunity to do so. We can turn on our contemplative mode, at any time. We can also exit out of it whenever.
Realizing that our minds and thoughts are virtually amazing, in so many different ways, we begin to see how important it is that we stay mentally healthy and protect ourselves from anything that might alter our minds, or our ability to function in terms of our thought processes.
Just some thoughts to think about, for those who think it is all right to use mind- altering drugs. Once the damage is done to our brains, it is done. Can our minds be restored, once damaged? Maybe not.
Enjoy that contemplative mode? Do not do anything that might destroy it as it might be gone forever if you do.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
What is This?
The power of the human mind to find ways to deal with 'out of the ordinary' day-to-day issues, is amazing.
Let's face it, we all have 'out of the ordinary days' at one time, or another.
Sometimes, we can simply ignore them. At other times, these kinds of days can be totally frustrating and every once in a while, they can be infuriating.
What happens when an otherwise ordinary day is altered by something unexpected and different? What about when we have three days like that in a row? And then, when it does not appear to end?
Interestingly, we cope. Maybe we even learn new different of coping, as our thought processes function in new and amazing ways.
Mentally, we work our way around the obstacles that appear to block our plans. We find another route to travel, a different way to get where we were planning on going. We jump over whatever is necessary to accomplish what we want to do, even on those days that appear to be 'crazy' days because of their unscheduled events.
What is happening today?
A current Blackberry outage presents its own collection of communication problems.
Apparently, the problem appears to be resolvable. Hopefully, its resolution will bring about changes for the better. Ideally, the human minds working on the problems are experts in effective problem resolution.
If not, our thought processes will find a way.
Should we remain optimistic? Why not? It is more fun than being a pessimist.
Let's face it, we all have 'out of the ordinary days' at one time, or another.
Sometimes, we can simply ignore them. At other times, these kinds of days can be totally frustrating and every once in a while, they can be infuriating.
What happens when an otherwise ordinary day is altered by something unexpected and different? What about when we have three days like that in a row? And then, when it does not appear to end?
Interestingly, we cope. Maybe we even learn new different of coping, as our thought processes function in new and amazing ways.
Mentally, we work our way around the obstacles that appear to block our plans. We find another route to travel, a different way to get where we were planning on going. We jump over whatever is necessary to accomplish what we want to do, even on those days that appear to be 'crazy' days because of their unscheduled events.
What is happening today?
A current Blackberry outage presents its own collection of communication problems.
Apparently, the problem appears to be resolvable. Hopefully, its resolution will bring about changes for the better. Ideally, the human minds working on the problems are experts in effective problem resolution.
If not, our thought processes will find a way.
Should we remain optimistic? Why not? It is more fun than being a pessimist.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
My Thoughts, My Life
It is a good thing that these are my thoughts, in other words, my thoughts reflecting my life and not those of someone else about me.
It is also a good thing that we have minds that are able to process the events of our days, weeks, months and years, in such a way that it makes sense to us. If someone else had to construct our lives from the events that they observe and interpret, our lives would surely tell a different story.
For instance, think about an old man hobbling down the street, carrying a long, walking pole. What he would tell us about his life, would not likely be the same as what you, or I, might tell others about him.
His story about your life, or my life, might be totally different than it actually is, too.
The key to the reality of our lives and our understanding of it, has to do with our perception. How you and I perceive can be the same, or different. The way that others perceive can be the same, or different, as well.
Which story about my life, or your life, would be the correct version?
Would it be the the story about you or I, as told by the man with the walking pole?
Or, would it be better to believe the events that I recount about my life and the ones you recount about yours?
Is your account of my life, more accurate, better than mine? Is my account of your life, more accurate and better than yours? Maybe its the one that lies in the account of the old man with the walking pole, (at least from his perspective).
At best, life is extremely complex and how we perceive it, adds to its complexity. Combine our lives with the perception of it by the old man, and add our own perception to it and life gets increasingly complex.
Lots of room for fun, fantasy and fiction!
We celebrate the similarities and differences in our thought processes and our perception. We also celebrate the complexity of life, however it is perceived by whoever.
It is also a good thing that we have minds that are able to process the events of our days, weeks, months and years, in such a way that it makes sense to us. If someone else had to construct our lives from the events that they observe and interpret, our lives would surely tell a different story.
For instance, think about an old man hobbling down the street, carrying a long, walking pole. What he would tell us about his life, would not likely be the same as what you, or I, might tell others about him.
His story about your life, or my life, might be totally different than it actually is, too.
The key to the reality of our lives and our understanding of it, has to do with our perception. How you and I perceive can be the same, or different. The way that others perceive can be the same, or different, as well.
Which story about my life, or your life, would be the correct version?
Would it be the the story about you or I, as told by the man with the walking pole?
Or, would it be better to believe the events that I recount about my life and the ones you recount about yours?
Is your account of my life, more accurate, better than mine? Is my account of your life, more accurate and better than yours? Maybe its the one that lies in the account of the old man with the walking pole, (at least from his perspective).
At best, life is extremely complex and how we perceive it, adds to its complexity. Combine our lives with the perception of it by the old man, and add our own perception to it and life gets increasingly complex.
Lots of room for fun, fantasy and fiction!
We celebrate the similarities and differences in our thought processes and our perception. We also celebrate the complexity of life, however it is perceived by whoever.
Monday, October 10, 2011
On Giving Thanks
The other day, I purchased a mini-rose bush, only to find out later that it already appears to have 'almost' gone into dormancy, which is not totally unexpected in north-western Ontario, at this time of the year.
One blossom is a pale, pink color with a yellow center and it is already very 'dry'. Another two blossoms are bright red and have almost 'dried on the stem'. The fourth blossom is bright red, almost perfect and wide open. There are also several new buds on the bush, so they still may open up.
That single bright red rose and the new rose buds are the reason that I purchased the plant, (as well as to have a mini-rose bush in my otherwise empty, white ceramic flower pot painted with similar roses, for the Thanksgiving weekend).
Water and fertilizer should be the secret to regeneration. Sunlight may help too, but will the plant come back out of its dormancy stage before its time? Maybe classical music will awaken it.
This reminds me of the thoughts in our minds.
At times, we think that our thoughts are alive and well, only to find that they may have gone into a dormancy stage, too. (Probably not all of them, as we are still up and about and doing our own thing, individually and collectively.)
Regardless, I have a plan for those roses.
I will let them dry some more, before cutting them and then create a new, dried flower arrangement that can be placed on my 'love knot'. The 'love knot' was a gift given to me by one of my nieces, a number of years ago.
At this time, it is currently in transition, as the original flowers and leaves have gradually fallen off. At the moment, it only has a new, pale green bow.
On giving thanks, it must be said that we can never give enough thanks for all of the blessings in our lives, including roses and dried roses.
One blossom is a pale, pink color with a yellow center and it is already very 'dry'. Another two blossoms are bright red and have almost 'dried on the stem'. The fourth blossom is bright red, almost perfect and wide open. There are also several new buds on the bush, so they still may open up.
That single bright red rose and the new rose buds are the reason that I purchased the plant, (as well as to have a mini-rose bush in my otherwise empty, white ceramic flower pot painted with similar roses, for the Thanksgiving weekend).
Water and fertilizer should be the secret to regeneration. Sunlight may help too, but will the plant come back out of its dormancy stage before its time? Maybe classical music will awaken it.
This reminds me of the thoughts in our minds.
At times, we think that our thoughts are alive and well, only to find that they may have gone into a dormancy stage, too. (Probably not all of them, as we are still up and about and doing our own thing, individually and collectively.)
Regardless, I have a plan for those roses.
I will let them dry some more, before cutting them and then create a new, dried flower arrangement that can be placed on my 'love knot'. The 'love knot' was a gift given to me by one of my nieces, a number of years ago.
At this time, it is currently in transition, as the original flowers and leaves have gradually fallen off. At the moment, it only has a new, pale green bow.
On giving thanks, it must be said that we can never give enough thanks for all of the blessings in our lives, including roses and dried roses.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
The Same Thoughts, Yet Different
While many of us have the same thoughts at various times, yet our thoughts and thought patterns are different.
A recent provincial election in Ontario, revealed that only 49 % of the population voted. 51 % did not vote, for one reason or another. Why? Is it that we all think differently and act in accordance with our own thoughts?
If that 51 % of non-voters lost their right to vote, for not voting, they might think differently again, but because voting is optional, not mandatory in Canada, people can choose to vote or not to vote in provincial elections.
At the same time many people choose not to vote, they may still want to state their thoughts to others, in no uncertain terms. Basically, it comes down to asserting and voicing their independent status.
When a million people choose to do that, it may become a protest, or even possibly a riot.
Political parties struggle to establish common goals based upon common thoughts and thought patterns. Some of them succeed while others fail. A lot depends upon the leader, how he or she thinks and voices thoughts on behalf of the people.
While it may be fine to choose not to vote, anyone who decides to go that route, allows others to vote on his or her behalf. How do you feel about having others express your thoughts, whether you are thinking them, or not? They may or may not vote for your candidate or political party.
We have the same thoughts, yet they can be different.
Not voting may state something too, like "I am too busy." Perhaps it says, "I don't care." Maybe it means there is a state of hopelessness, helplessness and apathy towards the government.
Next election, speak out on your own behalf by voting.
A 51 % majority not voting, means that the 49 % non-majority already won.
A recent provincial election in Ontario, revealed that only 49 % of the population voted. 51 % did not vote, for one reason or another. Why? Is it that we all think differently and act in accordance with our own thoughts?
If that 51 % of non-voters lost their right to vote, for not voting, they might think differently again, but because voting is optional, not mandatory in Canada, people can choose to vote or not to vote in provincial elections.
At the same time many people choose not to vote, they may still want to state their thoughts to others, in no uncertain terms. Basically, it comes down to asserting and voicing their independent status.
When a million people choose to do that, it may become a protest, or even possibly a riot.
Political parties struggle to establish common goals based upon common thoughts and thought patterns. Some of them succeed while others fail. A lot depends upon the leader, how he or she thinks and voices thoughts on behalf of the people.
While it may be fine to choose not to vote, anyone who decides to go that route, allows others to vote on his or her behalf. How do you feel about having others express your thoughts, whether you are thinking them, or not? They may or may not vote for your candidate or political party.
We have the same thoughts, yet they can be different.
Not voting may state something too, like "I am too busy." Perhaps it says, "I don't care." Maybe it means there is a state of hopelessness, helplessness and apathy towards the government.
Next election, speak out on your own behalf by voting.
A 51 % majority not voting, means that the 49 % non-majority already won.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Simultaneous Thought
"I just wrote you a letter," my Dad said, as I walked into his hospital room, a number of years ago. Smiling, he handed me the addressed, sealed envelope that was in his hand. "I was letting you know that I am in the hospital."
I had just flown from southern Ontario to Thunder Bay. No one knew that I was en route. I was not aware that my father was ill, but knew that he was on my mind, for some reason.
As I often did, as soon as the plane landed, I telephoned my mother to let her know that I was in town. She advised me, that Dad was in the hospital and suggested that I go and see him there, before I headed out into the country for a family visit.
To say the least, I was astounded.
When two people have simultaneous thinking, or simultaneous thought patterns, it can be astounding to say the least. Many people have simultaneous thinking, or simultaneous thought patterns and are not aware of it.
Interestingly, when I was working on my Religious Studies degree, I became aware that even many years ago, the same kinds of thought patterns were emerging simultaneously, in different parts of the world, areas that were totally unrelated by religion or culture. Most people were completely unaware of it too, even though historically, what they were thinking and expressing in what they wrote, was dated as to time and place.
We don't understand or appreciate simultaneous thought, mostly because we are not aware of its reality.
Even more astounding was my experience with a slab of clay that I worked on as an amateur sculptor, a long time ago.
I had crafted a human face experiencing for the first time, the feeling of working with a slab of clay. I could almost sense what a professional sculptor might have experienced, as I formed the features on the man's face.
It was not very long before that face collapsed, simply because the clay I was working with was too moist. I watched it melt down. It was gone forever and I never did attempt to re-create it.
Interestingly though, not long after, I found exactly the same face, a face with identical features, in a brochure. The face in the picture of the sculpture dated back many centuries.
I marvel at the possibility of simultaneous thought being expressed in a human face, over the generations. This was my personal experience, only explainable to me as the oneness of the mind of God and human beings, regardless of time and place.
Thinking something about someone?
They may be thinking the same thing.
I had just flown from southern Ontario to Thunder Bay. No one knew that I was en route. I was not aware that my father was ill, but knew that he was on my mind, for some reason.
As I often did, as soon as the plane landed, I telephoned my mother to let her know that I was in town. She advised me, that Dad was in the hospital and suggested that I go and see him there, before I headed out into the country for a family visit.
To say the least, I was astounded.
When two people have simultaneous thinking, or simultaneous thought patterns, it can be astounding to say the least. Many people have simultaneous thinking, or simultaneous thought patterns and are not aware of it.
Interestingly, when I was working on my Religious Studies degree, I became aware that even many years ago, the same kinds of thought patterns were emerging simultaneously, in different parts of the world, areas that were totally unrelated by religion or culture. Most people were completely unaware of it too, even though historically, what they were thinking and expressing in what they wrote, was dated as to time and place.
We don't understand or appreciate simultaneous thought, mostly because we are not aware of its reality.
Even more astounding was my experience with a slab of clay that I worked on as an amateur sculptor, a long time ago.
I had crafted a human face experiencing for the first time, the feeling of working with a slab of clay. I could almost sense what a professional sculptor might have experienced, as I formed the features on the man's face.
It was not very long before that face collapsed, simply because the clay I was working with was too moist. I watched it melt down. It was gone forever and I never did attempt to re-create it.
Interestingly though, not long after, I found exactly the same face, a face with identical features, in a brochure. The face in the picture of the sculpture dated back many centuries.
I marvel at the possibility of simultaneous thought being expressed in a human face, over the generations. This was my personal experience, only explainable to me as the oneness of the mind of God and human beings, regardless of time and place.
Thinking something about someone?
They may be thinking the same thing.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Limited Edition
Ever notice how you and others tend to place immediate value on a painting that is a limited edition?
In our thought processes, we understand that there are limits on things and because they are limited, they have value to us.
"When that book is sold, there will not be any more copies printed."
"Buy it while you can."
The human mind is unique in that it can co-relate limits with our inherent sense of value.
At the same time, we are able to find ways to extend something that has limits. Our creative genius kicks into action and begins to function in a way that tries to take limits off things.
We don't really want anything to have limits and thus, we instinctively seek to take the limits off things by making copies of them, in one way or another.
Apply that same kind of principle to people.
"You are a limited edition."
"You are an unlimited edition."
One wonders which people we should value the most. Do we tend to place more value on those who are able to procreate and thus extend their limits? More and more children are born. Family trees get larger and larger. Family values, good and bad, are passed on.
Do we value family members who are limited editions?
Perhaps the unlimited edition is so perfect, it should be extended forever.
Maybe the limited edition was imperfect, at best, right from the beginning and thus there is no point in continuing it any further. Could it be that the limited edition has reached the peak of perfection?
Who knows?
Looking at those around you, remind yourself that there are limits on everything and everyone. Because there are limits, treasure everyone equally. Enjoy them while you can. Love them.
See yourself as having value, being of worth, whether you are part of the limited edition, or the unlimited edition.
You are unique. You are you. You are loved.
In our thought processes, we understand that there are limits on things and because they are limited, they have value to us.
"When that book is sold, there will not be any more copies printed."
"Buy it while you can."
The human mind is unique in that it can co-relate limits with our inherent sense of value.
At the same time, we are able to find ways to extend something that has limits. Our creative genius kicks into action and begins to function in a way that tries to take limits off things.
We don't really want anything to have limits and thus, we instinctively seek to take the limits off things by making copies of them, in one way or another.
Apply that same kind of principle to people.
"You are a limited edition."
"You are an unlimited edition."
One wonders which people we should value the most. Do we tend to place more value on those who are able to procreate and thus extend their limits? More and more children are born. Family trees get larger and larger. Family values, good and bad, are passed on.
Do we value family members who are limited editions?
Perhaps the unlimited edition is so perfect, it should be extended forever.
Maybe the limited edition was imperfect, at best, right from the beginning and thus there is no point in continuing it any further. Could it be that the limited edition has reached the peak of perfection?
Who knows?
Looking at those around you, remind yourself that there are limits on everything and everyone. Because there are limits, treasure everyone equally. Enjoy them while you can. Love them.
See yourself as having value, being of worth, whether you are part of the limited edition, or the unlimited edition.
You are unique. You are you. You are loved.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
At Any Moment
At any moment in time, we can be confronted with the reality of a birth, marriage or death of a loved one or friend. The same is true of accidents, injuries or illnesses. In reality, we can have dozens of events taking place simultaneously, including graduations, birthdays and anniversaries.
Amazingly, our thought processes are not overwhelmed by any of them, at least not for very long. When there appears to be difficulty processing something, our mental faculties are such that we cope in one way or another. Sometimes, we need time to sort out events and think things through. We are able to do that and can marvel at how we respond.
Note that these life events can be personal or non-personal, depending upon the relationship we have with others. It does not really seem to matter if they are personal or non-personal, as we can deal with them, either way. We rejoice with those who are rejoicing and grieve with those in mourning.
More than likely, most of us do not appreciate the ability of our thought processes to keep our lives ordered, in spite of the dozens of things that happen and cause chaos, every single day. We know that everything is 'only for a time' and 'this too will pass', whatever it is.
Take a moment and make a note of the events in your life, for just one day.
You may be amazed.
Amazingly, our thought processes are not overwhelmed by any of them, at least not for very long. When there appears to be difficulty processing something, our mental faculties are such that we cope in one way or another. Sometimes, we need time to sort out events and think things through. We are able to do that and can marvel at how we respond.
Note that these life events can be personal or non-personal, depending upon the relationship we have with others. It does not really seem to matter if they are personal or non-personal, as we can deal with them, either way. We rejoice with those who are rejoicing and grieve with those in mourning.
More than likely, most of us do not appreciate the ability of our thought processes to keep our lives ordered, in spite of the dozens of things that happen and cause chaos, every single day. We know that everything is 'only for a time' and 'this too will pass', whatever it is.
Take a moment and make a note of the events in your life, for just one day.
You may be amazed.
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