Controlling Our Thoughts: A Deeper Understanding

Introduction

The idea of controlling our thoughts has captivated human curiosity for centuries. Despite the persistent pursuit, the concept of regulative control over our mental processes remains a complex and often contentious topic. This article explores the nature of thoughts, the mechanics behind their generation, and the implications of trying to control them.

What Are Thoughts and Who Controls Them?

Thoughts are not entities that control themselves, but rather expressions of our consciousness filtered through our memory and experiences. The process begins with the 'I' or 'Consciousness,' a self-reflective awareness that scans our memory for relevant data. Sometimes, thoughts appear to arise involuntarily due to conditioning or past experiences influencing our current awareness. However, many philosophical and scientific interpretations suggest that the innate 'Consciousness' is the true controller of our thoughts.

The Myth of Voluntary Thought

Although humans often perceive themselves as voluntary thinkers, the reality is more nuanced. The 'Consciousness' frequently mistakes its habitual patterns for voluntary thought, similar to how our bodies often fall into familiar routines without conscious effort. The challenge in controlling thoughts lies in recognizing that our thoughts are not our personal property but a reflection of our history and conditioning.

The Consequences of Thought Control Attempts

Efforts to control thoughts can also have unintended repercussions. Attempting to suppress thoughts can lead to increased mental conflict, as the suppression can generate cognitive dissonance and anxiety. This approach is akin to trying to push back a wave; while it may appear to work for a moment, the underlying energy eventually finds a way to express itself.

Consciousness and Control

The key to managing thoughts lies in understanding and refining the 'Consciousness.' By eliminating our own conditioning, we can begin to generate thoughts voluntarily. This involves a form of thought diversion—rather than fighting thoughts internally, we can train our conscious awareness to divert our focus from negativity to positivity. This act of divesting negative thoughts is a foundational principle in many spiritual and psychological practices.

Practical Steps to Divert Thoughts

To illustrate this process, consider the following example:

Original Thought: I can't do this. It's impossible for me. Diverted Thought: I am a great and powerful soul. I am a child of God. Success is our birth right. I can do this. Even impossible, I am possible.

By immediately diverting negative thoughts to positive affirmations, we can redirect the course of our mental activities. This practice is often achieved through daily spiritual or mindfulness exercises, which help cultivate a more positive and constructive mindset.

Conclusion

While the quest to control our thoughts may seem misguided due to the inherent nature of our consciousness, the more effective approach involves working with our awareness rather than against it. By understanding and managing our conditioning, we can generate thoughts more consciously, leading to a more harmonious and productive mental state.