I’ve always enjoyed the stories where the author presents alternative endings and allows the reader to choose their favorite. Today I offer one to you. A bright, enthusiastic young woman wanted to get an advanced degree. She consulted experts in the field and her academic advisor, selected several schools that had programs meeting her goals, and applied to each.
Ending #1 – Despite her best efforts, she was not accepted by any of the schools. Whatever it was that she needed to do or be, she didn’t achieve it, so she failed. Feeling like a failure, she became stuck in negative emotions such as discouragement, disappointment, and low self esteem.
Ending #2 – Despite her best efforts, she was not accepted by any of the schools. She had done a really good job on her applications and interviews, but in each case someone else did just a little bit better and was selected over her. Tough break. Feeling like a victim, she doubted the advice she was given and became angry, frustrated, and sad.
Ending #3 – Despite her best efforts, she was not accepted by any of the schools. The Universe had something better for her that she didn’t yet know about. Feeling panicky at first, she remembered that God adores her and that all things work together for good for those who trust. She recognized her fear as just a sensation and did her best to remain open and see what good would unfold for her.
What ending would you choose? Haven’t we all seen each of these endings play out? Another question to ask ourselves is which scenario is true? I realized this week that having earned a degree in math, I spent years immersed in the thought that there is always one right answer. However quantum physicists have shown that the expectations of the observer affect the outcome. When researchers had scientists view identical specimens under a microscope, each one saw what they expected to see – and they were not the same!
The truth is that our power lies in our ability to choose the thoughts we hold. We make the ending true simply by choosing it. No wonder Marianne Williamson said we are powerful beyond measure!