The Power of Positive Thinking
Originally published in 1952, The Power of Positive Thinking is a self-help book by Norman Vincent Peale. The book was revolutionary then because it proposed a way of thinking that would lead the reader to achieve a permanent optimistic attitude. Dr. Peale recommended affirmations (repeating positive thinking) as well as visualizations (using your mind to picture something good happening) as well as reading positive passages in the Bible. Since 1952 this book has been translated into over 40 different languages and has sold over 20,000,000 copies.
Dr. Peale wanted his readers to energize their lives and demonstrate “the power of faith” in their lives; he urged everyone to “believe in yourself and everything you do.” As I was pondering the influence that Dr. Peale has had on a generation of Americans it occurred to me that positive thinking can help us all now, just as it did in the 1950’s.
In the past several weeks it seems as if our part of the world has had one tragic event after another; many wonder where this world is headed. I have had more than one resident tell me that they were anxious (worried) about these natural and tragic occurrences. We know that anxiety (and stress) can have a major impact on our health and wellbeing.
If you find yourself feeling anxious, or as the grandchildren say “stressed out,” instead of fretting over our circumstances, take a moment and deliberately focus on what is true and what is right. I personally like to review the list of my prayer requests. So many of my prayers were so overwhelming at the time but God answered so many of those prayers. When I review the list I see his hand moving to weave even the worst tragedies together for good. He can overcome every act of hate, every selfish motive, and replace it with kindness, generosity and fellowship. Today when you wake, first count your blessings one by one, do so will add hours to your day.
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