Conviction is worthless unless it is converted into conduct. - Thomas Carlyle

Unfortunately, particular, undesirable scenarios led to this entry, however, I find that I am grateful for them because they have served as an opportunity for me to learn about myself. I have found that when another does or says something that is hurtful in one way or another, instead of retaliating, we can instead use it as an opportunity for reflection on the self and the way that we conduct our lives and interactions with others. For example, as opposed to placing the blame on the opposite party in an altercation and deflecting attention from my own flaws or wrongdoings, I can use the said altercation as an opportunity to, instead, recognize my flaws and decide what about myself I want to correct or improve upon.

So, over the past couple of days, I’ve had time to reflect on myself, my thoughts, my actions, and essentially- my intentions. I don’t think that we, as humans, give enough thought and attention to deciphering and recognizing our intentions prior to acting or speaking. Or even thinking.

With all of this said, I am going to make a conscious effort to consistently recognize my intentions before thinking, saying, or doing anything. When I am thinking negatively about someone or something, is my intention to deflect my attention from my own flaws? When I say something to someone, is my intention to build them up or to make them question themselves/break them down? Or to even make myself feel superior? When I am doing something, am I intending to improve circumstances for everyone impacted by my actions? Or are my thoughts, words, and actions only to serve myself and my own ego? Obviously, no one wants to recognize or admit such selfishness. But as I get older and life progresses, I find that it is necessary for growth, for the conservation of my integrity, for the maintenance of peace of mind, and for the greater good of every life that I may potentially touch.

So, I want to challenge anyone and everyone to make a genuine effort to take a step back in each moment and really analyze the intentions behind and within your thoughts, words, and actions. It is there that we find the type of energy, positive or negative, that we are putting out into the world.

Disclaimer: In no way, am I claiming that I have perfected this practice. I am merely a novice accepting the challenge.