by Wes Fessler |
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November 4 , 2010 |
We are most commonly judged by our actions…for the things that we say and do. We also judge ourselves by our actions, as we try to control our behaviors, to keep them in line with societal norms and with our own expectations. We evaluate ourselves based on things we do, finding joy and regret in actions, while scarcely noticing that the driving force behind them is our thoughts.
We Act as we Think
We are what we eat, and we act as we think. Whether it is the foods we digest or the thoughts that we cling to, we are affected as a whole by the elements we consume. Both inside and out—in our health and appearance, we cannot deny the influence of the choices we make.
Good and Bad Choices
Each of us is faced with good and bad choices in regard to the types and quantities of the foods we eat. There are some foods that provide us with great nutritional value, and others that merely load us with empty calories, fats, and questionable additives. Some foods are delicious, tempting us to eat more than we need, and placing us at risk of weight gain and other detrimental health effects. There are some foods and eating behaviors that are good for the body, but there are others that can cause illnesses, diseases, and even death.
Misguided Actions
Some of the things we consume can harm us quickly, while others do so slowly and almost unnoticeably over time. We are not always immediately aware that our eating behaviors are dangerous or deadly. Sometimes we enjoy the convenience of food that is fast and easy to prepare without giving thought of the consequences that may arise in its consumption. We are not always aware at first that what we consume may be harmful to us, or we may simply ignore the warnings; but over time, as we continue to follow the same misguided eating habits, the effects begin to show both internally and externally. After a period of ignorance and prolonged denial we may become suddenly aware that we are in the grips of obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or other devastating health issues. It is our actions that lead us subtly into perilous circumstances, but ultimately it is the result of our stubborn and rigid thoughts.
More than Deeds
It is important to realize that when our actions go wrong, it is only a small indication of what has gone awry with our thoughts. It is our thoughts and how we manage them that determine what our actions will be. Our thoughts are responsible for the choices we make. In order to modify our behaviors to attain optimal health in body and mind we must begin to evaluate ourselves not only on the merit of our actions, but also upon the thoughts that lead to them. It is true that our thoughts and actions are connected, but thought always precedes action. It is not enough to consider our actions only when deciding if we are living up to the standards that we intend to uphold. In order to master our actions we must first look to our thoughts and the moral character that defines who we are.
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