Sounds simple enough. It is simple, but not easy. The practice of self-observation, whereby we recognize our thought patterns, requires intention, attention, diligence, and a hearty dose of courage. It isn't fun to keep seeing how uncontrolled and unhealthy our minds can be. Yet, slow, persistent efforts bring rewarding results. We can get support from others by asking for occasional reality checks, especially when the thought patterns seem stronger than we are. I've been thinking that all my efforts are going nowhere. What do you think?" Those of us who possess a religious or spiritual faith can trust that we are ultimately the reflection of God or Spirit as a way to counter the irrationality of our beliefs. Whether we are spiritually inclined or not, we can all contemplate a sense of basic goodness.

Reflect upon what you have been doing in the course of this day. Chances are that most of your activities have focused around planning, communicating verbally, following directions, staying on the proper side of the road. Our educational institutions have done a reasonably good job in training us in these skills. But at what expense? In the feeding of the mind, we have often neglected the body. How much time have you spent today in intuitive and creative endeavors? In nourishing logical reasoning, we have often starved these nonlinear, right-brain faculties. As a result, we are only half alive.

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