It’s that time of year again. The time when many of us start each New Year with resolutions to change certain behavioral patterns that would result in much desired change in our lives. High on the list of priorities we find weight loss, more exercise and any number of physical, cosmetic, and personal objectives. Rarely, however, do we find spiritual or emotional objectives a high priority.
Only a couple of weeks ago was I amazed to hear on a regularly listened radio program, where the focus was dedicated to the importance of balancing physical, mental, spiritual and emotional health. The two special guests were doctor who specialized in different aspects of development of body, mind, emotions and spirit and had written books and other material on the subject. Contrary to most personal resolutions that generally prioritize physical fitness, these doctors placed more emphasis on emotional and spiritual fitness that most of us grossly underestimate the effects of on our physical health. Many basic tips were given on some of the essentials of highly healthy people among which were: Forgiveness (high on the list). Harboring hurt, hate, anger, grudges, bitterness, etc. produces the type of proverbial acid that “does more damage to the vessel in which it is stored than to the object on which it is poured” as I was wisely apprised of many years ago. Learning how to develop healthy relationships – an art that is contingent upon understanding about who we are, why we are here and what is the best way to express this critical awareness that would help us greatly to … Avoid Loneliness. The Power of Positive Thinking enhanced by memorizing spiritual and other encouraging passages, concentrating on things we appreciate and avoiding dwelling on pet peeves that produce “toxic attitudes.”
One Baha’i prayer that puts it pretty much in perspective states: O God, refresh and gladden my spirit, purify my heart, illumine my powers. I lay all my affairs in Thy hand. Thou are my Guide and my Refuge. I will no longer be sorrowful and grieved; I will be a happy and joyful being. I God, I will no longer be full of anxiety, nor will I let trouble harass me. I will not dwell on unpleasant things of life. O God, Thou art more friend to me than I am to myself. I dedicate myself to Thee, O Lord.
Memorization of such purifying passages as this prayer by Abdu’l Baha provides strength and encouragement that one can readily draw upon when needed. Also helpful is the Baha’i passage that extols us? “If a man has nine bad qualities and one good one, forget the nine and cline to the one.” To these valuable tools there are innumerable others you can add to enforce the power of positive thinking, the key to totally healthy people.
There is still time to rethink and reevaluate our priorities in making New Year resolutions. There is still time to make realistic goals and “small step” objectives toward them. It’s never too late to start developing our body, mind, spirit and emotions, each dependent upon the other to become a totally healthy individual and enjoy a … Happy and more prosperous New Year!
