
Anaïs Nin (1903 – 1977) was an essayist, short story writer, and memoirist. Under the Glass Bell, which is a collection of short stories, is thought by many to be one of her finest works. A quote attributed to her, which reads: “We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are,” resonates with a teaching from the Law of Attraction: “As within, so without.”
At first glance, especially for individuals accustomed to viewing the outer world as fixed and unchanging, Anaïs Nin’s quote may seem bizarre, even absurd. Many–if not most–people may view themselves as remote observers, having little or no affect upon their environment. For the purpose of learning more about deliberate creation, however, we’re going to journey inward and just consider that changing our viewpoint could, in fact, change the quality of our life.
The implications of her quote–if we accept it as truth and make appropriate changes–are considerable. With just a little introspection, we may realize that all of us bring a unique perspective that skews how we experience the world. That only makes sense, for we are unique. Some of us have been raised in loving families; some raised with less than optimal funds; some in abusive environments; some in lavish lifestyles. That which is normal to one may seem totally abnormal to another. With this in mind, we understand that what we actually experience in life is intimately connected to the attitudes we hold at the level of being.
In an earlier article (Become a Better You, March, 2016), I related that Jim Rohn, a renowned motivational speaker and businessman, shared how his life improved dramatically after a mentor told him that his outer results would change when he changed within. This registered deeply in Mr. Rohn’s consciousness; and he went on to achieve great success, both personally and professionally. To his credit, he shared his knowledge to help many people improve their lives. The list of others–such as Bob Proctor, Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, Deepak Chopra, and T.Harvey Eker–who have stated the same truth is both long and impressive. That they have achieved tremendous success is not by chance.
What I wish to point out, is that all of these people are sharing a similar message: “As within, so without.” Contemplate this and allow its importance to register fully. Let a question dawn in your awareness: “Could it actually be that if I change my thinking that I could achieve greater success on the outside? In my circumstances? In my health? wealth? relationships? If true, it would mean that the quality of life is within our control!
Such a realization leaves Fate in the dust! No more must we hope and beg and pray that life will improve! With awareness of this truth, we realize that cause and effect are working in and through us, according to Law! We may leave doubt, worry, and anxiety behind; and replace them with a knowing that achievement of our goals is truly possible. Think about it: An inner transformation may be all that’s separating us from the living the life of our dreams.
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. 🙏🙏