I doubt if any of us–given the choice of entering a lions’ den of our own volition–would willingly open the gate and stride bravely toward lions pacing back and forth. Such action, we realize, would not be in our best interests. Fortunately, our instincts prevent us from making such a grave error. We know to keep the gate closed and leave those lions alone. Now…if only we were always so wise with our mind:
Think of it. We know that no good may come of it, but time after time we figuratively enter a den no less dangerous than the one mentioned above. It is a den of the mind. Even when we should know better, we often carelessly throw our happiness–even health–to the lions by dwelling on thoughts which cannot–ever–yield anything but suffering. And yet we do it. The lions I’m referring to go by many names: Remorse, Regret, Anger, Aggression, Hatred, Jealousy, Envy, Pride, Greed, Shame, Malevolence. If given the opportunity, these lions not only ravage our present-moment joy but also devour the promise of our future happiness. Such is the lurking threat of those nature of lions.
And how do we open the gate? By giving energy to thoughts which are otherwise powerless. Until we give them focus–perhaps by dwelling on a past regret; or worrying about a future outcome–such thoughts pose little or not threat. When we step into their den, however, we leave ourselves vulnerable to their corresponding effects.
Doubt that our thoughts actually create any real outcomes? If so, we might ask ourselves why corporations spend millions of dollars to advertise. Executives of such corporations realize that if they can attract our attention (and thereby place thoughts in our mind) we’ll be more likely to purchase their products and services. Think: Is not everything from food to clothing, furniture to houses, cars to vacations, so advertised to appeal to our senses? Is there not the promise–either implicit or explicit–that through such a purchase we will benefit immensely? And in politics, is not the same process applied to persuade us to vote for this or that party? If the intention is not to make us think in a certain manner…then why?
We may learn many lessons through our study of the Law of Attraction. One of the most valuable relates to focus. Great minds know the importance of consciously directing their mind. They realize that thoughts that are habitually placed in the mind will ultimately come to pass. Knowing that, they exercise great discretion in their thought processes. In short: They know how to think–deliberately!
Fortunately for us, there’s a world of positive thoughts at our disposal: Love, Joy, Kindness, Compassion, Courage, Empathy, Enthusiasm, Inspiration, Hope, Gratitude, Health, and Generosity…to name but a few. Each, when given focus–and acted upon–will yield corresponding results in our lives. Would we not be wiser to direct our attention to them the next time we’re tempted to enter the Lions’ Den?
Dare to dream (and care for one another).
With heartfelt regards,
Art
Copyright © – 2020 – R. Arthur Russell
P.S. Please share this article if you enjoyed it. If you’d like to view my latest book (This Taste of Flesh and Bones–released September 8, 2020), press here. May it help you in your spiritual journey. 🙏🙏
Think2wice 