IMAGINE

    As we get older, we often lose the ability to use our imagination. We busy ourselves with work and responsibilities, and tell ourselves that there is no time for play. And even when we do play, it is often something like zoning out in front of the television or surfing the Internet. These kinds of activities, however, are more akin to just numbing our brains rather than using our minds in a healthy way. Most adults choose these kinds of recreations because they relegate the use of imagination to the realm of child's play. It is my humble opinion, that this is why there are so many unhappy, stressed out and miserable people in our world today. After all, how many people do we all know who use their imagination in a negative way by visualizing things such as: what a mess the house will be, if I don't clean it right NOW. I have so much to do, there is no time to relax. I bet today will be another stressful day at work. I hope I don't get laid off. I'm getting older, I hope my body stays healthy and does not breakdown or contract some fatal illness... The list goes on and on with the ways in which most adults use their imaginations in a toxic manner.

    Maybe it is time that we begin to use our imaginations in a healthy way once again. Blue sky about the possibilities of life, play a board game with the family, have a squirt gun fight in the warm summer weather. Take a drive and just enjoy the scenery, ponder the mysteries of the universe and life, listen to some music; and I mean really listen, not just have it in the background while you work or play on the computer. There is so much in life to see and enjoy, yet, most of us never even glimpse it. And that is because our thoughts and faces are usually buried in some mindless mundane activity that is not raising our consciousness one iota. Imagine what new treasures you might discover if you only take the time to look, listen, play and use your mind in a more creative way. The old excuse that says you are not creative does not hold water here; your imagination has just become weakened like a muscle that is never used. It will come back strong and fresh, once you decide to exercise it again.