From Creative Mind by Ernest Holmes, I offer the following quote: “An hour a day spent in silent meditation will not save us from the confusion of life. The fifty-one percent of a man’s thinking is what counts.” Most of us have written our fair share of exams, and few would believe that fifty-one percent could represent a passing mark. In this highly competitive world. we’ve been taught that we require marks consistently in the high nineties, or even perfect, to rise to positions of distinction. With regard to the current situation related to a virus, however, such is not the case. We might be relieved to know that fifty-one percent will, indeed, help all of us.
Marc Allen, one of the founders of New World Library, once expressed the fifty-one percent principle regarding our goals through the analogy of a plane in flight. What he shared is paraphrased as follows: A plane that sets out for a destination often deviates (contrary to public opinion) from its flight path. Strong winds, storms, and various other conditions are constantly at play and must be taken into consideration. But if the pilots continuously steer the plane back onto course, the plane (and its passengers) will finally arrive at their destination.
All of us are seeking safe passage though the current world situation. There are no guarantees, simply because life doesn’t come with any. The good news, however, is that we can all play a role in helping us land safely at our common destination. It’s important to realize this: All of us—not just some—are pilots. What each and every one of us think, speak, and do literally matters. Are we steering toward optimism, or veering toward pessimism? Despite appearances to the contrary, we are One. The following is a short list that can help us arrive safely:
- Gratitude: If possible (and it’s always possible), place your attention on an aspect of life for which you are thankful. Is your heart beating right now? “Thank you, heart.”
- Self Care: Devote at least a few minutes each day to an activity or non activity (such as meditation) that nurtures your soul. Habits that contribute to a positive mindset are invaluable, for they provide a sense of stability.
- Sleep: Although this may be challenging, all of us realize the importance of getting enough rest. A mechanism that never stops is subject to a great degree of wear and tear. Sleep can–and often does–shift our entire outlook.
- Contribute: Finding a way to contribute is a powerful way of shifting our focus from the little egoic “i” that may be so fearful or stressed right now. By helping someone else, we help silence worries related to self.
- Deliberate Optimism: The world has weathered countless past storms, and we have done so through deliberate focus. We always have choice, and now is the time to apply it. Wayne Dyer was attributed with the following quote: “The law of floatation was not discovered by contemplating the sinking of things.” Through awareness, we can learn to watch our thoughts and, thereby, better govern our attitude. If a thought serves us, we are wise to keep it. If it doesn’t, we can deliberately choose to replace it with a positive one.
The fifty-one percent principle can help us power through this current situation. The will to survive–and thrive–is within us. Let’s all buckle up and do what’s in the best interests of everyone.
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 