To Manifest

Hello Friends!

I'd like to share my thoughts on manifestation: the process of thought becoming reality.

The universe, in all its diverse glory, has much in store for us. It has challenges and celebrations, loves and losses... Guess what though? We are the ones with the power to categorize our experiences. Things happen that are beyond our control, sure, but we are always in control of our responses to them. We can choose what to attend to, seek growth, and file experiences under "positive". This requires us to engage our own minds. It demands that we be open to changing in response to critical self- dialogue. It can be an ass- kicking process, but oh is it worth it. I'll always choose a good humbling over a negative outlook.

How we experience our lives has much to do with what we expect from them. If we grinch around predicting the worst from people or circumstances, it is likely that bad things will happen. This is because negative expectations color our experience of reality. It is like adding black paint to your palette- even a small amount has a profound effect. We humans are strange. We want reality to align with our assumptions, even when they are negative. So much so that we seek out supporting evidence. We focus solely on those pieces of evidence that support our initial hypothesis, and toss objectivity aside. So I ask you this: why not put on rose- colored lenses and parade positivity through the streets?

What we get from the universe is strongly correlated with what we put into it. There is a constant movement of energy, which, as we know from physics, cannot be created or destroyed. This energy is powerful. As it flows between people, it takes on the quality of their actions and character. When I compliment a stranger or wait the extra minute to hold someone's door, I am sprinklin' sunshine on their day. They'll feel seen and respected, and are likely to pay the kindness forward. If I am impatient with a cashier or cut people off in traffic, I am doing a significant disservice. The frustration born in these moments worsens the days of those involved. Over time, it makes us expect negative outcomes. What a vicious cycle it is.

The manifestation of our thoughts is inevitable. Let this be evidence of the power of the individual. So rock on- because you're up, slugger. Let's envision our wildest dreams and watch as they become reality.