KEEPING THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE

by Nicholas de Castella

Summary: Keeping things in Perspective

Our experiences are determined by what we focus on and our attitude to what we see. If we focus all the time on the things that are not how we want them to be then we will feel miserable. And: 'What ever we focus on expands'.

We can direct our attention consciously and cultivate positive ways of interpreting what we perceive to have more positive experiences. For instance if we look at our problems with a negative mind then they will be hard to endure. Alternatively, when we look at our problems as challenges - that are calling us to develop new skills and open our hearts, then we will handle them much better. Either way the problems are the same!

When you know the alternatives - then you have a choice!

A very useful way of developing positive attitudes is by maintaining the broadest perspective and putting things in their rightful place. Last Saturday was a New Moon (no Moon). The night was clear and I could see millions of stars spread across the sky - boy did that put my little troubles in perspective.

Similarly we can asses our attitudes in respect to the big picture to assist us to hold the highest (and most helpful) perspective.

Remember we can only consciously hold one thing in our mind and heart at any time. If we are holding a positive attitude then it excludes the negative.

There are four states of consciousness we hold

1. Rat race consciousness - trying to get ahead, be comfortable and survive

2. Cause and effect consciousness - What we sow, we reap.

3. Liberation - the Peace, Love, Happiness and Contentment Lies within.

4. Enlightenment - Giving back and being a being of service