The Gospel of Thomas

"When we change the way we see the world, we change the world." That is one of the most powerful things I have read in The Enlightened Mind. It is so true that our perspective really does affect us, our actions, our experiences, and consequently the world. When people look at the world through defensive angry eyes, it negatively colors their interactions with other people and how they receive what comes into their lives. That negativity can become a downward spiral that draws others down it too, and the negative cycle just continues on until someone stops it. Likewise, the opposite perspective can reap many blessings. A perspective of love and generosity can feed a positive outlook as positive interactions and experiences strengthen it. It is enjoyable to be around loving people. Spread the love around...it's a whole lot more fun than the alternative.

Jesus said, "Blessed are those who have chosen their solitude, for they will find the kingdom of heaven." As much as I enjoy spending time with friends and family, I have found times of solitude refreshing. Taking time to read inspiring books and pray gives me strength and peace.

The disciples said to him, "Tell us who you are, so that we can trust you." Jesus said, "You search for me through heaven and earth, but you don't know the one who is right before your eyes, because you don't know how to search into this very moment." Psalm 139:7-12 in the Bible talks about God being everywhere. Even when the disciples had Jesus face-to-face they still wanted to confirm Jesus' presence. I wonder how often people are searching for answers in life, and if they only knew how to "search into this very moment" they would see that God is active all around them and may have even placed the answer right in their midst.