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Build on Basic Principle


Build on Basic Principle
It is building that takes time and effort. It is effort really to do what is right, and the proper dimensions, the proper plumb, the proper lengths of sawn boards, etc., are the same as using the Principle so that our thoughts are clear, logical, intelligent, and basic. If we build our lives based upon that basic Principle, then they will be right and strong. Our lives will not give way under a little bit of an earthquake when somebody challenges us on something and we have to struggle from going into a real reaction. We should not have that if we have built our lives based upon this tangible Principle. If we just grow like Topsy, the little things can disturb us readily. That is why we have to build consciously and intelligently rather than just incorporating a little bit of awareness of, "Oh, yes, we mustn't lose our temper." It is a wonderful thought, yes, but what good is that thought by itself when someone is severely irritating us?

Unless we understand that thought more fully, unless we have an appreciation of what temper means and have worked out a concept of temper control, there will be no control. Everyday we must build, step by step.
Mind Becomes Powerful
As we struggle initially with temper, with moods, with feelings, with reactions, there is the problem that we give way. It is just like when jogging: one gets tired and stops and walks, but if one keeps pushing along, without overdoing it, of course, knowing one's physical limitations, one's mind becomes a stronger power. The body wants to stop and rest, but the mind says, "Jog on." It is like two magnets pulling on a metal object. Whichever magnet is the stronger will control the movement of that object. The body, the muscles, the physical sensations pull for relaxation and rest. The mind has that decision, "I'm going to run a mile," and there is the struggle. If the mind gives way just because the body is tired, then the mind has been overcome. It has been controlled by, or influenced by the feelings and emotions, the sensations of the body. If, on the other hand, the mind says, "Jog on" there is something that comes into the mind that is of a quality that can be likened to the strength that comes into the muscles. The mind becomes more powerful; otherwise, the mind remains weak.
A Strong Mind
When we talk about mind over matter, when we talk about strength of mind, it is not that difficult or intangible. It is a case of using the mind to do what we want it to do. If we constantly exercise the body, we can run longer distances, we can lift heavier weights, and the body grows stronger and stronger. It is the same principle with mind, if the mind is used consistently. The oxygen goes into the bloodstream, into the circulatory system, and the muscles are broken down as they are used and rebuilt with fresh, strong muscles, and they become stronger. The oxygen from our breathing goes into the lungs, into the nervous system, and it strengthens the power in the nervous system. The nerves themselves do not become stronger. They may become more vital, they may create a greater power of vitality, but they themselves do not become bigger. They merely contain a stronger current of vitality. The nervous system will carry a more vital charge as it is built up from breathing. The power in the breath through the nervous system then energizes an invisible aura of mind, an invisible power of concept. That concept is the strength that allows us to free ourselves from temper, moods, reactions, feeling sorry for ourselves, being self-conscious, being tied up in fiddly little things. All of these things that disturb us can be released by a strong mind.

Also to be emphasized is consistent deep breathing exercises to build a strong mind. Too many of us go through the motions without using the opportunity to its fullest. In a way it is the difference between going for a jog every morning or just strolling around the block, which one does not get much out of. If, while breathing, one's mind is everywhere else but where it should be, one is missing so much.

 

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