Changing the way we think
The system of thinking that our society has trained us with is counterproductive to a Oneness way of thinking. Our typical thought patterns need to be undone, because they are mostly unconscious egoic thoughts. That is, most of our thinking is based on negativity from our frightened little ego. Therefore, if we allow our minds to "do the thinking for us", we will constantly exist in a position of separateness, unrest, and drama.
So what can we do to change the way we think? The first step, as we mentioned before, is being aware of the frightened, angry, arrogant little thoughts of the ego. The next thing to do is to begin a new program of thoughts, with new characteristics.
What kinds of characteristics should our thoughts have?
What we are aiming to do is think like our Spirit. We want to have more positive thoughts connected to Peace, Love, and Harmony. The best way to start thinking in a more Divine way, is to start thinking of the Divine, and most importantly, letting our minds speak to GOD.
We can get into the habit of internally "speaking" to the Creator at every moment, talking as though we are communicating to ourself. So if feeling a bit tired, in our heads we can say, "You know what, GOD? I'm feeling sorta tired." That can be followed with what we think about feeling tired, what we plan to do about it, and anything else that we might say to a friend about the subject.
The part of us that is the Spirit is permanently connected to our Source, so continuous mental conversation/prayer brings the mind (Thought energy) a little closer to Spirit (a higher vibration). It's similar to getting to know a new acquaintance, creating a bond that eventually makes the two parties become similar to one another. The strongest friendships typically hold similar characteristics, personalities, and interests.
What if i'm unsure what to "talk" about to GOD?
The first thing to remember is that the Creator knows everything we say, do, or think. So talk about anything; talk about everything! Connecting often with our Source makes it easier to slowly become more like our Source. Our hearts will begin to soften. Stresses will more easily subside...
Make no mistake, the ego will seek to taint this Divine communication, so continued awareness of the types of thoughts we have is important. But, creating a friendship with GOD helps to keep positivity in sight.
Is there something i can do to keep the ego out of my thoughts?
There are two Divine characteristics that promote a Oneness way of thinking.
- Seeing Divine Beauty
- Heartfelt Appreciation
As we speak to GOD throughout the day, and come across others in our routines, the first thing we have to remember is "i am now meeting with part of GOD, in the flesh". Disregarding our judgments of that person (which are opinions of our ego) we can begin to observe what a beautiful soul we are in contact with.
Indeed, every person we meet is beautiful; each person is Divine.
The more we see the Divine Beauty in all things, the more our thought patterns enter into a position to understand that we are all One.
Heartfelt Appreciation is a very important behaviour in changing the way we think. As we observe how Divine and beautiful all things are, it becomes easy to feel grateful for all of them. As we think and feel a deep thanks for all that the Universe gives us, a wonderful sensation begins to well up within.
Explaining the sensation is of no use, for it simply must be experienced. What i can say is that the more time we spend expressing appreciation for everything, (including that which we believe to be "negative" or burdensome,) the easier it becomes to experience more appreciation. The more we experience appreciation, the closer to GOD we begin to feel.
Is there anything i can expect to change from changing my thoughts?
Changing the way we think most definitely produces changes. Primarily we begin to observe a change in our mood. It is no secret that spending the day with positive thoughts creates a positive outlook. And this happiness creates all kinds of benefits, particularly to physical health. (Studies show that the emotional state of happiness strengthens the immune system, reduces physical pain, etc.)
The spiritual benefits are of great interest, because personal perspectives change. As life's ups and downs are all viewed as beautiful and worthy of deep gratitude, the trials of life become more tolerable. The wonders of life carry deeper meaning than ever before. Inspiration becomes more commonplace. Not to mention, how we relate with our human family begins to improve, and we start attracting those that think more like ourself.
Dr. Wayne Dyer said it best, "When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change."
