NEGATIVE THOUGHTS

The sages teach that negative thoughts tend to waste the mind’s capacity, so they teach methods to cleanse the mind of negativity. Seeing this, someone new to the Tao may ask, “Is it not true that what is negative to some may be positive to others? How do you define negative thoughts? Who can say what is positive or negative?

The first part is quite correct. What is negative to one person may not be so to another. This, however, does not mean thoughts can never be assessed as positive or negative. You still have a duty to make the determination for yourself. You still have to identify the thoughts that are unworthy of you, thoughts that diminish you and drag you down. Having made such determinations, you must then conduct your life accordingly, without worrying about how others may see things differently. What is good or bad for them is their own business; you must mind your own.

The Tao Today

Beware of the common trap that since there are no absolutes that apply universally to everyone, the same must also be true for you. It is a fallacy that has confused many people about having values. In reality, Tao cultivators establish definite principles, beliefs and a code of ethics in their own thoughts. At the same time, they never force their ideas on other people out of respect for the diversity of perspectives in the world. Use this as a model for your own mental paradigm, and you will see that there is no need to hesitate in cleansing yourself of negativity.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin