Brain studies have shown that we may be hardwired to focus on problems at the expense of a positive vision. The human brain wraps around fear and problems like Velcro. We dwell on bad experiences long after the fact and spend vast amounts of energy anticipating what might go wrong in the future. Conversely, positivity and gratitude and simple happiness slide away like cheese on hot Teflon. Studies like the ones done by the neuropsychologist Rick Hanson show that we must consciously hold on to a positive thought or feeling for a minimum of fifteen seconds before it leaves any imprint in the neurons. The whole dynamic, in fact, is called the Velcro/Teflon model of the mind. We are more attracted to the problem than to the solution, you might say...
The only way, then, to increase authentic spirituality is to deliberately practice actually enjoying a positive response and a grateful heart. And the benefits are very real. By following through on conscious choices, we can rewire our responses toward love, trust, and patience. Neuroscience calls this neuroplasticity. This is how we increase our bandwidth of freedom. --Richard Rohr
My grateful heart is enjoying the wonderful Thanksgiving holiday I spent with my brother's family, enjoying all our favorite foods, football and game-playing. I re-learned the card game Euchre. I was fairly successful at it, even though I can't even manage to count a mere seven trump cards, embarrassing for numbers-nerd me.
There's a pleasant journey awaiting your grateful heart. Happy travels!
Leta
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