When I was a kid two of my imaginary friends were Nyruna and Poonkin, who seemed very real to me. Some might say I was a little crazy talking to imaginary friends. Yet today, in a way I still have them. When I leave myself a "to do" message on my answering machine I jokingly leave the message for my two friends, "buddy and pal."
It is not uncommon for our imagination to be the source of our successes and happiness. In Finding Neverland, James Barrrie escaped to his imaginary world, Neverland, which became the subject of his classic Peter Pan. Barrie's imagination brought him joy, wonder, contentment and much artistic and material success.
Our imagination can also be the source of our experience of despair and hopelessness. We live in a stressful world that is constantly being fueled by the sensationalism of the media. These negative imprints influence our beliefs about our future. During the Vietnam days we experienced tremendous turmoil and one of the darkest eras of our history. Pessimism prevailed and there was very little hope for the future. Yet it was during this period that much of the counter culture movement was birthed and today many of the concepts of that era are part of our mainstream culture.
Although it was challenging I maintained my optimism during this period and was hopeful about the future. I believed that things would get better and that this perspective was our only choice. During this period I was inspired to write the following in a poem. "Should there be a day when the visionaries of peace stop loving then the prophets of doom will have there day of gloom."
We can't give up on our dreams and visions of the future. We need to use our imagination in a way that can empower us. In a way that serves us, our communities and the world we live in.
Lets talk about how we can do this. How can the power of our mind unlock the door to our imagination? Barrie used his imagination to escape to a world that to him was very real. And this world brought him success on many levels. Using your imagination to visualize what it is you want is the key to unlocking this power. Visualizing includes feeling and experiencing what it is you want in as many ways as you can. If it's a great relationship that you desire imagine how you would feel in this relationship.
The process of manifestation has always been a passion of mine. Yet, I have been told by some that affirmations and visualizations don't work for them. I believe that there is a simple reason for this. You must first empty your mind !! As you learn to empty your mind through meditation or other mind techniques and then introduce your dream or vision of what it is you want, a clearer message is imprinted upon your subconscious mind .
After you have become adept at imagining the life you want, express gratitude for having it. Gratitude is an incredible spiritual practice because it acknowledges a higher power and brings you back to being in the now. Through expressing gratitude you are reminded of the abundance and well being in your life. As you radiate this abundant vibration you attract to you greater abundance and wellbeing.
I know that I have simplified this practice. But why does it have to be difficult? Meditate, Imagine (Visualize) and Practice Gratitude. For myself this has been a fulfilling practice and way of life. What have you got to lose other than a few minutes each day?
We are at a critical time of our lives. Visualizing the world we all want for ourselves and for each other can change the collective consciousness of the planet. Don't give up and keep loving as each one of you makes a difference. What other choices do you have? I hope I have inspired possibility in your life. When we think of possibility we become hopeful and optimistic about the world we can create together.
Please share this letter with those in your circle. Thank you for your commitment, your support and for your referrals.
Journey On
Mark
About the author:
Mark Susnow has a unique background. Formerly a successful trial attorney for 30 years, as well as musician, he integrates what it takes to be truly prosperous in the world with the inner wisdom unfolded to him through years of yoga and meditation practice. As a personal coach, leadership consultant and inspirational speaker, Mark provides inspiration and motivation to many business leaders and professionals. He knows what it means to have a big vision and has demonstrated the courage and energy it takes to accomplish it. Consider contacting Mark and be sure to visit his website:
http://www.inspirepossibility.com
