One of my constant phrases is “Thoughts held in mind produce in kind.”

I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to continuously plant positive messages into our brain.  We are faced every minute of every day with news of war, chaos, catastrophe, and mayhem.  We have to consciously and continuously fill our minds with the joy that surrounds us.

I constantly read and listen to scriptures, interpretations, stories, and songs from a variety of ancient and current spiritual and religious philosophies, even those that assign limited human attributes to what I believe to be an indescribable and infinite Presence.  I disregard the superficial labels and characteristics and focus on the message.

The story of Daniel lying down to sleep in the lion’s den encourages me to face my fears and trust that all is and will be well.  Joseph was sold by his siblings and unfairly put in prison.  Through all of his troubles, he maintained his integrity and commitment to do his best and rose to have power second to the King’s.  The Brave Merchant walked through fiery hells to receive a blessing from the Buddha.  The fairy tales I read as a child taught me that good shall ultimately prevail.  I take inspiration from the many stories of people who faced tremendous challenges and, not only persevered, but prospered.  When I feel like giving up, I recall these stories and keep it moving.

Even though differently stated, inherent principles are the same in every wisdom tradition. The more I hear and read, the more they sink in.  The repetition becomes part of my mind’s litany.  One morning, I woke up late.  Realizing that I wouldn’t be able to devote much time to meditate, I decided to forego it.  Instantly, a Biblical story popped into my mind: “If she could just touch the hem of his garment, she would be healed.”  I then recalled that the intent to meditate can be powerful and even a second of awareness adds to a cumulative total that will eventually develop a higher level of consciousness.  That morning, I had a short, but excellent meditation.

I need proper tools to fulfill my destiny.  I need consistency, practice, strengthening, and stretching.  I need to stay alert so that I can think clearly and effectively.  I need to have endurance.  All of these require a tank full of premium fuel.  There is no sustenance in a diet of pain, degradation, disrespect, and dishonor.

When I reach my wit’s end, upon what will I draw if my tool bag consists of unfairness; resentment; misogyny; the F, N, B, and H words; and destruction?  What will be my vision of myself and others?  How will that perception affect my actions?

A study by the Indiana University School of Medicine showed visible alterations in MRI scans of young men exposed to violent media. There were marked functional decreases in parts of the brain dealing with concentration, self-control, anger, aggression, and impulsive behavior.  Other studies show that children who become desensitized to violence by viewing the same in film or television are more likely to exhibit combative behavior.

Most of us have watched violent and scary movies; but, to what degree?  Video games are a major industry.  Daily, and for hours at a time, many children, teens, and adults shoot, maim, dismember, and kill human and other beings.  Is it any wonder that people choose violence to express their pain?  Gun control alone will not solve this epidemic.  We need an emphasis on productive mental discipline and values-driven behavior.

The good in our lives and in the world is not consistently expressed in the media; thus, we have to purposely choose to what and whom we listen.  While we need to be aware of what’s going on, we must override the negative with messages of inspiration, hope, and comfort.

When faced with seemingly insurmountable problems, I remember songs that tell me not to give up, to hold on, to believe, and that my life will get better.  Mariah Carey’s “Through the Rain” and Christina Aguilar’s “The Voice Within” were my anthems for quite some time:

Mariah

When you get caught in the pouring rain with nowhere to run

When you’re distraught and in pain without anyone

When you keep crying out to be saved, but nobody comes

And you feel so far away that you just can’t find your way home

You can get there alone.  It’s ok, once you say,

I can make it through the rain,

I can stand up once again on my own and

I know that I’m strong enough to mend.

Christina

When there’s no one else, look inside yourself.  You’ll find the strength that will guide your way.  Just hold tight.  Soon you’re going to see a brighter day.  No one can stop you.

When I hear “The Great I am” by Donnie McClurkin, I think of King David dancing in the streets praising God’s goodness.  I am filled with Spirit listening to this song, all the while training my mind and body to move gloriously in gratitude.

We must ingest proper nutrients of love, harmony, peace, and joy in order to transcend the limitations of our lives.  Remember, our world reflects our thoughts!