Thinking IS our power. Everything is created first in thought. We give up our power by thinking we don't have control over our thoughts. We certainly do, though it is not necessarily easy. If we have been subject to a long-term atmosphere of trauma or criticism, it is tough to believe we have the power to change anything for the better. We tend to make up stories about "whodunit" to us, what they did, and how we have suffered, and we repeat those stories to whoever will listen. Holding onto those stories is an act of giving up one's power.
The 12-Step programs have an interesting take on power. The first step is admitting one is powerless over the substance of choice. The second and third steps involve recognizing that there is something greater that can empower the addict, and turning over the substance and his/her life to that power. Powerlessness truly leads to a higher power that works.
Developing and maintaining one's personal sense of power is an ongoing practice requiring daily attention. I'm really struggling with this idea right now, being in a repeating pattern that I feel powerless to change. Woohoo--yet another growth opportunity!
Leta
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| The fall colors of Pennsylvania, my home state |
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