A Thought for the Day - August 29, 2023
I'm committing to writing more. I've realized that when I put my thoughts into words to share, it's not just about conveying ideas to others—it's about refining my own thinking. Writing serves as a lens that focuses my thoughts, guides my actions, and encourages me to pay closer attention to the world around me. It's become a spiritual practice, a way of connecting deeper within myself.
In my writing journey, I find resonance with Paul's guidance to others in his letter: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" (Philippians 4:8, NRSVUE).
Interestingly, Paul's words echo the wisdom of the great Greek thinkers of his time—a testament to the universality of valuable teachings. Paul's emphasis wasn't merely on something being "Christian," but on its inherent goodness. He recognized that goodness can manifest anywhere, and that God's presence isn't confined to a specific label.
As we navigate today's digital landscape, we're inundated with a torrent of information. You're likely reading this online, skimming past advertisements and scrolling through a stream of opinions and news, ranging from complaints to tragedies. Amid this influx, you might have wondered why positive news seems scarce.
The reality is, good news often takes a back seat. Negativity sells, a phenomenon rooted in our psychology that aims to protect us from potential threats. Yet, the positive words we encounter have the power to transform us—sometimes even more than we realize.
Consider this: it takes ten positive comments to counteract the impact of a single negative remark a child hears about themselves. So, let me offer you something positive, something that aligns with the qualities Paul highlighted—truth, honor, justice, purity, loveliness, commendability, excellence, and worthiness of praise: You are remarkable.
Sure, you've made mistakes—we all have. But you've triumphed through every trial life has thrown at you. Despite challenges, you've shown resilience in the face of adversity. Your moments of loving kindness have illuminated the lives of others, instilling hope where it might have wavered.
In a world saturated with what seems like a never-ending cycle of bad news, pause. We are miracles in our own right. When you can't find the good news you seek, remember that you've been good news. You are good news. You can be good news again.
Our good deeds often go unnoticed; negative news tends to hold our attention. Yet, in this world that sometimes undermines our agency and potential, remember this truth: You are far more amazing than you can imagine, and when you intentionally consider the good you become even more amazing.
Amid your scrolling, take a moment to reflect on your own remarkable self. Perhaps you'll find yourself pausing, setting aside scrolling, and engaging in an act that creates good news—for someone else, for yourself, and maybe even for God.
With hope,
Garrett