“We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves.”
One of the most extraordinary and powerful elements bestowed upon mankind is the human mind. Everything we perceive as reality is perceived through the mind. Every action taken or decision made starts in the mind. All that was, is and will be will always trace back to the mind. Before God began creating, God first thought and through the mind these thoughts manifested into all that is. Mankind has struggled to comprehend the complexity of the mechanisms of the mind. So what exactly is the mind? How do we build a healthy mind? How can we properly utilize our mind to the fullest of its potential?
The human mind is shapeless, formless, non-physical in nature and is a tool used by the soul. Its functions are to perceive and understand objects as well as to create and destroy. The soul uses the body to operate in the physical realm and the mind to express itself. The easiest way I found to understand the mind is by comparing it to a converter. A converter is basically a device that alters the nature of electrical energy from one form to another. In this case the mind takes energy that the soul gives off and converts it into thought. These thoughts become kingdoms, empires, music, culture, religion, art etc. This whole process is instantaneous leaving the majority of individuals to believe that the mind is their actual being when in reality it is a powerful tool to serve self. If the mind is not kept healthy and active, like the body, it will become weak and futile. A weak mind is a vulnerable mind that is easily dominated and enslaved. Do you sometimes act against your will? Have you ever been clouded with unwanted thoughts? Do certain states of mind (jealousy, envy, pride, anger, depression, addictions) disturb your inner peace? The honest answer to these questions will bring you to the awareness of your current state.
When we are taken out of our natural state by delusions we become sick and unhappy. The most lethal crises that humans have faced from the beginning are being enslaved by their own minds or the minds of others. Mental liberation is essential in attaining that perfect balance and harmony that would bring us back to our pure godlike state. Permanent liberation can only be found by purifying the mind. Before altering your diet your body should first be detoxed, the same concept applies for the mind. The following are a few steps for mental purification. Self-observation: Start observing and following your thoughts. Discern between those that are internal and external. Start asking yourself who is thinking up the thoughts entering your head. Forgiveness: Take time to really enter your mind and let go of all negative events, situations or feelings in your life. Meditation: Meditation is a highly effective way to clear your thoughts. Through frequent practice you learn how to silence your mind. It belongs to you and therefore should be fully under your control. Discern the difference between self and mind: It is important to understand that self and mind is not one in the same just as body and soul are not.
After the purification process it is important to follow up with strengthening your mind. The following are a few steps for mental strengthening. Reading: Reading is a great way to broaden and stimulate your mind. Prayer: Prayer is an ancient method of bridging the spiritual and physical world bringing balance and guidance to the human experience. Continuity: Stick to whatever it is you are doing until it is done. Vitality: Become tenacious in life. Combativeness: Have a sense of resistance, opposition, courage, boldness and spirit. Acquisitiveness: Getting, acquiring, possessing and drawing to oneself. Cautiousness: Carefulness, prudence, watchfulness, foresight and judgement. Self-Esteem: Self-respect, self-reliance and self-love. Concentration: Learn to focus all of your energy and will on one single thought/point absent of unwanted thoughts. FAITH: Knowing the simple truth of the inherent and latent powers of man over material conditions awaiting the exercise of will.
“No one can serve two masters”, you cannot serve your mind and serve God. Purifying and strengthening your mind is the key to mental liberation, inner peace, joy and power. Doubt, fear and all of the countless thoughts that pollute our minds are all limiting delusions that enslave us prohibiting us from experiencing our Christhood. “If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” Meaning if you knew a shred of who you are and took the necessary steps to reaching Christ consciousness, moving mountains would be the least of your natural ability. Fill your mind with pure positive desires, invigorate your will power and nourish your mind with knowledge. Mother Nature responds to dominion. Anything Christ can do we too can do, we are one in the same. “Know thyself”, free your mind.
