Guest Author - Andrea Gardiner, Ph.D.

In previous articles regarding the mind, I made mention of the philosopher Descartes. I spoke of his renowned quote, “I think therefore I am.” When addressing metaphysical philosophy, there is plenty of conversation surrounding the nature and power of your thoughts. Many have taken great care to bring to light the role of thought in the manifestation of physical reality. Much has been done over the years by many great thinkers to make you aware of how your mind should be used. Some have even painstakingly explained the nature of physical and non-physical reality in an effort to impress upon you the importance of your thoughts. It seems as though all of this effort has left many feeling as though “they are what they think.”

Before I get too far along and lost in this article, let me take the time to state that metaphysically speaking you are not the sum of your thoughts. The specialized manner in which you think sets you apart as a species, but you do not exist because of your ability to think. With that being said, there is a missing component to the idea that thoughts are the creator of your or any reality. What is being ignored are the various other bodies of existence in which a manifestation must occur before it is actualized into this time space reality. When you think of thought form alone for example, you neglect the emotional drive and thrust to propel materialization forward. Simply wanting or thinking something on a mental level is not enough for manifestation. This is only the first plane of existence.

Thoughts are things within their own right. When you give birth to a thought or attract one into your mental body you must understand that they are independent “forms”. Identifying with one is as harmful as identifying with your child. Your thoughts are creations shaped by you or quite possibly by the consciousness you connected to when you attracted the thought. Oh yes, as creature thoughts do possess a level of desire and purpose. They will gravitate to you if your purpose matches their nature. They are seeking expression through a creator such as you. They understand their contribution to Universe and their role in its expansion. Thoughts do not consider themselves in categories of good or bad, they just know that they Are.

For you, the creative individual, the thought is meant to facilitate your intentions and purpose. They are really tools in your arsenary of creation to choose from. You can draw from this reserve any time you wish. I do not mean to downplay the role of thinking in the act of creation or even to minimize mankind’s unique mental capabilities. Thoughts are absolutely necessary components to the process of creation. However, do not overemphasize its contribution to creation while consequently ignoring yours. When this is done you do an injustice to both yourSelf and your thoughts. You will restrict the expression of your creative endeavors as a result of erroneously identifying yourSelf as the totality of your thoughts. In this way, you do not allow the fullness of Who-You-Really-Are to act on your behalf when you identify it inaccurately. Also the thought is denied its desire for expression in all possible arenas; whether you decide to retire the thought or pursue it to its fullest extent.