Engage or Disengage?

Several years ago, I wrote a blog about how to change thoughts naturally. In fact, I wrote a book about the same topic titled, “The Whole Soul!” I wrote about and have heard many others over my lifetime talk about changing the way we think, therefore changing how we speak. This has been my very best lifelong learning experience; other than learning to live and walk in the Spirit with Christ. Interestingly this is a topic of conversation in many circles, yet I still encounter, on a consistent basis people speaking toxic language into their own brain cells as well as into the very air they breathe. Whether you speak it or think it, guess what? It still goes into your brain cells, ruminating and coursing through your cellular system like a raging forest fire, or an overpowering flood.

So, you have to determine (make a decision) whether to engage or disengage with toxic thoughts and language. Although I have practiced watching my words for over 40 years, the reality was I found myself still engaging in negative thoughts/conversations – whether using internal dialogue or communicating with others. It has now been many years since I made the decision to simply disengage from toxic behavior. Once I realized the reality of the toxic effect thoughts and words have on our mind, brain cells, spirit, heart, soul, and relationships, I wanted to tell the world first through my book, then other media outlets to just STOP IT! From that point on, my purpose for being in the earth took on even a greater meaning, and that being at least attempt to help others who really have a heart to change their language.

The challenge I have consistently encountered is this: when I say to a person, “that’s a disempowering word, or topic, or conversation, how can we change it…?” Many are actually offended; some literally look at me as though I’ve challenged the very privilege they have to breathe; others immediately begin explaining or defending their words. The bottom line is their opposition is echoed loud and clear.

So, this brings about the question, do we continue to engage or disengage? I’ll leave you with a wise Proverb: "So above all, guard the affections of your heart, for they affect all that you are. Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being, for from there flows the wellspring of life." The Hebrew word levav is the most common word for “heart.” It includes our thoughts, our will, our discernment, and our affections.