As I pointed out a couple of weeks
ago, many spiritual teachers caution strongly about the ways we phrase things.
While I agree about avoiding limiting language, I do think the issue can be
taken too far. For instance, when it
comes to weight loss, some say we should “release” weight, not “lose” it, I
guess because we might find it again. Or
perhaps it’s because “loss” has such a negative connotation. After working for Weight Watchers for five
years, though, I’ve seen hundreds of people successfully lose weight, so I hold
no fear of the phrase.
David Friedman makes a point about
wording that I think is well worth considering, however. He suggests that we should exchange “I am”
with “I feel” much of the time. As I
understand him, “I am” statements are best reserved for declarations of truth
about ourselves, describing characteristics that are immutable. Let’s say “I am a child of God” but “I feel hungry.” Or “I am
divinely blessed” although I may “feel” frustrated, disappointed, or angry. Saying we feel these things rather than we
are them acknowledges that they’re temporary situations, not a way of being.
When it comes to enhancing our ability
to receive, let’s keep the “I am” statements positive and know it’s okay to
acknowledge our feelings at that moment: I feel limited from time to time, but
in reality I am prospered when I remember
that “I have a rich Father who’s taking care of this,” (to borrow one of Charles
Fillmore’s most delightful affirmations).
I feel impatient, but I am on
the way to realizing the abundance I desire.
I am grateful, and I am capable of receiving all I need
with grace and ease. How about you?
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