We Become What We Think

[Jesus says], "But what comes out of a person, that is what defiles. From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.” — Mark 7:20-23

"Finally, brothers [and sisters], whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." — Philipians 4:8

"Our Life is shaped by our mind. We become what we think." — The Dhammapada

Our thoughts matter. Many unintended and unrelated thoughts routinely enter our mind throughout the day. Many of these thoughts simply pass through our minds like clouds passing by unnoticed in the sky. Yet, those thoughts that we cling to or attach our mind to can shape who we become.

For example, reflect on the next time you experience the thought of a person. Does your mind invoke a positive or negative image of that person? Does your mind immediately begin to present a narrative supporting your image of that person? Is it the same image and narrative that appears each time that person's name enters your mind?

The same can occur when you think of a past event. Does it invoke an image of a positive or pleasurable experience, or of a negative or painful experience? Until interrupted by another thought, does your mind continue to create the same narrative supporting your image each time the thought of the event arises in your mind? Do you continue to relive the same experiences over and over again?

Think of an unfavorable experience you perceive as having had with another person. How do your thoughts of that exprience condition or affect how you think about or act around that person? Do you ever reflect on or challenge your preconceptions about that experience or person, especially if you never heard or considered the other person's understanding of that same experience? Have you walked in that prson's shoes?

Fortunately, we can change what thoughts we cling to or attach our minds to. We just let such thoughts pass through and out of our mind as they occur, without any attachment to them. Sometimes, it requires us to rationally reflect on what are the underlying reasons for our preconceptions of the person, event or experience, and whether they are still valid or justified. Perhaps the experience was not correctly understood or interpreted by us, or the person or cicumstances have since changed, or we have grown from the experience. Maybe its time for understanding and compassion, for forgiveness and letting go. Other times, it may require us to admit that we are powerless and that we need to surrender ourselves to the grace of God or a "higher power," and the help of others, such as when the desires created or fostered by our thoughts lead us to an addiction or unfavorable habit.

It begins with prayer, humility, and seeking the reality of the present moment.