1 result for (book:notp AND session:800 AND stemmed:caus AND stemmed:effect)
[... 3 paragraphs ...]
Such a practice leads to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, in which effective action seems impossible. Life possesses an exuberance. If this is cherished, nurtured, encouraged, then additional energy is generated that is not needed for the purposes of daily private life — a superabundance, that can be effectively directed in those areas of the world where help is most needed.
The strength, vitality, and effectiveness of thought is seldom considered. Thought, you may say, will not stop a war — yet what do you think started such a war? Throughout history the downtrodden have often risen into power, using force, rebelling against their oppressors; and yet, learning little from that experience, they turn and become the new elite, the new power-holders. Their physical conditions may be completely changed. Now theirs, the offices of government, the wealth. Gone are the conditions that, it would seem, caused the uprising. Yet in retaliation they strike out, forming a new class of downtrodden who must in their turn rise and retaliate.
Despite all appearances, conditions of an exterior nature do not cause wars, or poverty, or disease, or any of the unfortunate circumstances apparent in the world. Your beliefs form your reality. Your thoughts generate practical experience. When these change, conditions will change. To add your own energy, focus, and concentration to dire circumstances in other portions of the world does not help, but adds to, such situations.
[... 20 paragraphs ...]
I will give you more on this. I had forgotten it when I ended the session prematurely. Ruburt’s hesitation was caused this evening by misplaced nostalgia at ending our book. You are both indeed beginning a new, more productive, surprisingly pleasant and somewhat extraordinary period of your lives. And now I bid you a fond good evening.
[... 4 paragraphs ...]