If you haven’t read the book by James Allen, As A Man Thinketh, you should. It is a great book. Here are several things that impressed me and got me to thinking about my passion, ASEP, the profession of exercise physiology. ASEP stands for the American Society of Exercise Physiologists. Allen says, “They themselves are makers of themselves by virtue of the thoughts which they choose and encourage….” In regards to exercise physiology and Allen’s statement, it is important to think “right” towards what is exercise physiology and who is an exercise physiologist. Remember, as a man thinketh in his heart so is he,” thus thought is power; it is everything and them some.
Part of of what Allen says is that our thoughts are like seeds. Thinking right is symbolic to planting the seeds just right and helping to ensure they grow well. Thus, one’s thoughts and character are very important. In fact, one’s destiny is believed to be an outcome of what a person thinks. How else are our circumstances improved except by the willingness to improve upon what we are thinking.
But, sadly, so many colleagues are victims of their own painful and persistent wrong doing, that is, wrong thinking. Because of there lack of honesty and/or integrity, their thoughts and actions produce bad results and bad encounters. The proof of this thinking is in the radical change in their thinking that crystallizes into habits of distraction and greed. Yet, if they were to cease from such thoughts, opportunities beyond their widest dreams would be part of their everyday lives.
Often, what is forgotten is that bad and selfish thinking results in disease and decay. It is just a matter of time and the impurity of their ways manifest unclear effects and poor health. Yes, I understand how this sounds but I am convinced of Allen’s thesis. To live continually thinking in a cynical and selfish way is to live the doubts and fears that accompany the loss of intellectual powers. Sorry, but the truth is the truth. The reality is that it is really hard to help the weak man.
If only they could cherish dreams beyond themselves. If only they had not given in to others who represent less than the ideal of dreams and doers. If only, yes, if only the world was full of more beautiful people. Perhaps, then, one’s vision would be driven by love, passion, and caring. If only…,then, there would be true peace among the winds and storms of work and play.
