The age-old children’s song carries a timeless message:
Oh, be careful little eyes what you see
For the Father up above is looking down in love…
Oh, be careful little ears what you hear…
Oh, be careful little tongue what you say…
Oh, be careful little hands what you do…
This simple rhyme reminds us that what we consume and express influences our thoughts, attitudes, and the very course of our lives. Our minds are not impervious fortresses; the things we constantly subject ourselves to can subtly and powerfully reshape how we think and act.
The Perils of Negativity
If we indulge in a steady diet of negativity – violent media, hateful rhetoric, depressing conversations, or our own self-defeating internal monologues – we run the risk of internalizing these influences. It’s a bit like constantly breathing polluted air; it gradually harms our inner wellbeing. Focusing on negativity can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression.
Protecting the Wellspring of Your Life
Many spiritual and philosophical traditions recognize the connection between our inner world and our outer actions. Biblical wisdom states, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life” (Proverbs 4:23). Guarding our hearts and minds doesn’t mean sheltering ourselves from all unpleasantness, but filtering the relentless negativity that can permeate our lives, weakening our resolve and clouding our outlook.
How to Guard Yourself
- Curate your consumption: Be conscious of the media you watch, the music you listen to, and the conversations you engage in. Are they primarily constructive and supportive? If not, consider making some changes. Limit your exposure to negative news, avoid gossip, and seek out resources that are positive and life-affirming.
- Replace and renew: Substituting harmful content for inspirational sources is transformative. Engage in things that feed your soul: uplifting music, positive podcasts, encouraging books, or even time in nature.
- Affirm the good: Use positive affirmations and scriptures as shields against negative influences. Find verses or phrases that resonate with you, and repeat them throughout your day when you feel challenged.
Choosing Your Path
Filtering what we see, hear, say, and do is an act of self-preservation. It’s about choosing to protect our minds from the constant barrage of negativity that can diminish our inner light. By taking active steps to guard ourselves, we cultivate a more positive mindset, a healthier inner environment, and ultimately, set ourselves on a course toward a life aligned with joy, purpose, and growth.
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