Power In Thoughts by Sandy

Power In Thoughts by Sandy - February 2014 Scholarship Essay

“If you realized how powerful your thoughts are, you would never think a negative thought.”
― Peace Pilgrim

I have so many favorite quotes, and this is definitely one of them. It inspires me every day and is a constant reminder of the statements "you are what you think", or "your thoughts are your life". There are several variations with the same message. The basic idea is that your thoughts affect how you feel about life and what happens to you.

However, there's something I wish everyone would understand - we can choose our thoughts. Many, including myself at times, feel powerless to our thoughts. This is the very thought that gives our thoughts power over us. It is important to differentiate thoughts or feelings, however. Feelings are our automatic response to a given circumstance. Thoughts are how we respond to our feelings which then direct our moods.

I am not in any way trying to say that we should always be happy- because sadness is a real and necessary part of life. But I try to view sadness in a positive light - it is there for a reason, whether to teach me a lesson or learn to appreciate the times where I am happy. I no longer fear sadness the way I used to, because I choose to view all my feelings as relevant and purposeful. When I think positively and critically, I know I am in charge of my thoughts and am able to draw more positive situations into my life as a result. When I think negatively, I continue to draw in more and more negatives.

Every day I make an effort to choose my thoughts wisely, because I have learned their importance.