How does your energy affect other people?

Mark Lang

Every time you say something, you are adding energy to the world. Is it positive or negative energy? Well, that is up to you. Do you want to become a more loving person? Then you need to speak in a loving way. That means thinking loving thoughts.

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Okay, let’s get practical. How exactly do you train your mind to think loving thoughts? Well, it all starts with what you focus on in life. We are talking about your perception here. If you perceive humanity as one big family and view other people as your brothers and sisters, then you will be more likely to speak kindly to them and less likely to harm them intentionally.

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Before you can perceive something, you need to conceive it first. If you cannot conceive the notion of kindness in the world, then you will not be able to perceive the kindness which already exists around you. If you cannot imagine yourself radiating compassion to your fellow human beings, it is highly unlikely you will speak compassionately to them.

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When we receive so many negative messages and images from the news media every day, it can affect the way we perceive things. After a while, the world looks like a hostile and dangerous place. We react to this threat by seeking safety. Typically, we withdraw from others and become guarded against anyone who is different from us; this sows the seeds of prejudice.

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However, there is another way of perceiving the world, another way of thinking. You can train yourself to think more positively and minimize the negative view. You can look for the good in others. Oh, yes, it’s there. You just need to keep looking for it. It may take a while with some people, but you will eventually find it.

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Here’s a real-life example of how a negative thought pattern can be turned around: as you are sitting at home in your living room watching TV (as most of us do), notice how your mind responds to the violence you see on the screen. This response is most likely the result of cognitive conditioning by the media onto the public. Once you are aware of it, you are in a place where you can do something about it.

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So what can you do? One idea for improving your thoughts is to ask yourself more constructive questions. When you see these violent images in a TV show, ask yourself, “What can I do to make things better?” Perhaps that could mean turning the channel to a comedy program. Better yet, turn the TV off and spend some time with your loved ones. (Now there’s a novel idea.)

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It can benefit you greatly just to realize the extent to which your mind plays an active part in your level of happiness. The quality of your thoughts directly affects your perception which eventually impacts the quality of your life. If you want to see a dramatic improvement in your life, keep asking how you can make things better. Ask yourself this question all day long, day after day. When you do, you will not only think differently, but you will also feel differently, too. And those closest to you will notice the improvement in your character.

Okay, now that we have covered the areas of speech and thoughts, let’s dive right into the topic of behaviors. (Did you think we were going to skip that arena? Really? You are not getting off the hook that easily.)

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If you are serious about becoming a more loving person and having a greater positive influence on the world, then taking action is required. You cannot just sit there thinking happy thoughts while the house burns down around you. It is time to put what you have learned to practice.

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Of course, we are starting with the premise you have already accomplished the task of conceiving loving thoughts and perceiving everyone as your brother or sister. The next step is to act in the other person’s best interest. This step does not mean you neglect your needs, nor does it mean you allow someone to take advantage of you. It simply means to be concerned about the wellbeing of the other person.

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What could you do differently the next time you are in a store waiting in the checkout line and notice that the person just behind you has only a few items? This scenario is one of those opportunities to show kindness. You could let that other shopper go ahead of you.

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Regardless of whether your kindness is accepted or rejected, you have succeeded in turning your loving thoughts into loving actions.

You do not need to try and force it. In fact, you do not need to try hard at all. Once you have loving thoughts in your mind, you need only let the energy flow from you. Compassion is not a sales pitch you push on others. Just let the love in your heart shine through naturally as if it were water seeking the lowest and most humble place.

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In time, you will see more and more opportunities to show kindness. These opportunities are everywhere: at home, school, shops, public places, and on the job. The more you recognize them, the more you will act positively. And the more you spread the positive energy, the more it will come back to you because love loves to love more love. It is the law of attraction.

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Something to meditate on today. Pause before you speak or take action. Make the decision you want to put more positive energy into society rather than negative. Hold thoughts of love in your mind by thinking about what would be best for the other person. Then let the kind words naturally flow from you. And if you see an opportunity to show compassion, by all means, do it!

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