But don't you teach positive thinking?

Someone asked me this the other day. She had asked me about my current health situation which, by the way, is getting better daily. I had explained what's going on and had expressed my frustration with the doctors who keep wanting to do more tests so they can reach a diagnosis they are comfortable with. In my view they have done enough tests, just decide on a treatment plan and move forward.

As I expressed my frustration, she commented, "But don't you teach postive thinking?" She was implying that I shouldn't be frustrated and I should just see a positive outcome and ignore my feelings. So, I replied, "You can approach your life in a positive manner without denying the reality of how you feel. It's important to express your feelings so you can have a positive outlook. In fact," I continued, "I think some people like myself who develop heart problems do so because we aren't always forthcoming about our feelings."

I could tell she didn't totally accept what I was saying and that's okay. Truthfully, I don't see myself as teaching "positive thinking." I see myself as a spiritual teacher and mentor who helps people live more fully on all levels of who they are: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. I help people live from a more integrated viewpoint and, yes, with a more positive attitude.

We are complex beings - oh, that life were simpler - and it is important that we accept and integrate all levels of who we are. And sometimes that means feeling frustrated and expressing how we feel. This actually allows us to release and integrate our feelings so we can move forward into our daily lives with greater clarity and purpose. This is much greater than positive thinking while also encompassing it!