The day can begin up and soon fade with the passing hours. We are sometimes like the new Spring flower drooping from the wind, hot afternoon sun or pelting rain. Yet the same flower can perk up, raise up with its inner stamina and stand firm displaying its fullness once more. 

The flower does not have a choice to take cover or physically move from one position or place to another. We humans do. The self-help era probably took the pulse of a human being. Or observed people and realized there was a need for homo sapiens to use more of what they were capable of, especially in times of greater stress and changes in general. 

Interesting how the self-help book industry has not lost its luster. We have demands, challenges, quick turns in a day and pattern interruptions and appointment changes regularly and as daily occurrences. 

During the time I was a church staff counselor and spiritual teacher, I had a call from an individual who was part of the congregation. He asked how he could change a negative thought. He stated: “How can I stop thinking this way? It is occupying my mind and draining me.” We talked on. 

In the conversation, I shared several ideas and helps in guiding his mind to replenishing his in-look and outlook. Also communicated what helps an individual continue living from a sunny frame of mind rather than a dreary and downcast one. 

For one thing, when we are in a negative state, we must give ourselves the room and be patient with the process of turning our mind and also feeling nature around to a more sunny and rosy view of ourselves and things in general. Especially if it is one major thing we are focused on. We can help ourselves be more creative and energized with a view that life is on our side.

In addition, when we affirm to ourselves, we are never alone in any perplexity or predicament. There are hundreds if not thousands who have felt as we feel and faced much worse things and triumphed. We can also. 

We have the power and sparkling aliveness within us to change a thought, to move in a positive direction, and to provide ourselves with positive self-talk of the uplifting kind as a reminder of how much we as individuals have to be grateful for.

As we remind ourselves of the inner reservoir of energy and unlimited bank of divine wisdom and ideas at hand in our intelligence capacity to begin and use to solve the problem before us. We can change a negative thought pattern by beginning to think one uplifting thought and phrase after another. We may apply self-talk and a time in the quiet asking for divine help and guidance. We can ask God for immediate grace and forgiveness, for a shift in mood and thought. 

When we daily remember the feats we have pulled off, when we have risen up to the occasion. When we have stared a dilemma in the face and said, “I am greater than this problem; I do make the right and best decisions, bringing about a satisfying solution.” And, I support myself by recalling often God’s grace is with me and great peace is my constant companion and transforming power healing old and tired attitudes, sagging feelings and low spirits — I Am in the center of a healthy and robust attitude shift which uplifts and accomplishes ‘good works.’