Welcome to my blog * thoughts and things * poetry, pictures * ideas * opinions * kindness * video * stay and read a while.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Intentions, Friends and Unintended Outcomes
I came upon an interesting definition of
the word "intention" on Wikipedia which got me thinking about all the influencing factors that determine whether or not our intentions become realized, such as hidden or unexplored beliefs associated with an intention:
the word "intention" on Wikipedia which got me thinking about all the influencing factors that determine whether or not our intentions become realized, such as hidden or unexplored beliefs associated with an intention:
"Intention is an agent's specific purpose in performing an action or series of actions, the end or goal that is aimed at. Outcomes that are not anticipated and not foreseen are known as unintended consequences.
"Intentional behavior can also be just thoughtful and deliberate goal-directedness. Recent research in experimental philosophy has shown that other factors may also matter for whether or not an action is counted as intentional." (Wikipedia)
Discovering these "other" factors is the heart of spiritual work, and sometimes the frustrating part of the work because these factors can be hidden from our view even though they may be in plain view to others around us. It's typically easier to see the blocks preventing other people from moving towards their intentions than it is to see our own blocks. Where there is stress in a person's life there is typically also an "other" factor at play and it is worthwhile pausing to explore what it might be rather than pushing through toward an intention.
Asking a trusted friend what blocks they perceive in us can be helpful. However, picking who to ask requires careful thought too. Someone who loves you, who is a loyal, trusted friend may be a good place to begin. Most important is to be willing to listen to what they offer without defense.
I asked a friend recently what he saw in me that might be blocking my progress towards my intention to live more joyously and he told me exactly what I didn't want to hear. Nevertheless, once I accepted that I already was aware of what he told me it became easier for me to take the practical steps that would allow the mysterious energy of intentions to draw me to my greater good.
Is there an intention in your life that might benefit from the insight of a trusted friend?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Popular Posts
-
Join us this Sunday, April 21th, at 9 or 11 a.m. for our celebration service as we dive deeper into our April "Giant Gentleness" t...
-
Blogging on line has become easy and accessible to everyone through a growing number of free online services availalbe to choose from. Blog...
-
There may be things I have to correct in my behavior. There may be social issues I have to attend to. There may be injustices I speak up abo...
-
My friend Matthew Duran is doing the AIDS/LifeCycle ride again this year. He keeps trying to enroll me but I haven't had the courage yet...
-
In life's journey, we encounter individuals who radiate a light of wisdom and strength, inspiring us to walk a path of purpose and meani...
-
This April, we focus on the power of gentleness and its impact on our relationships and inner well-being. I’ve recently been exploring how t...
-
I believe that Hell is a state of mind I believe that Heaven is a state of mind. I believe that there is one “whatever it is” Spirit. I...
-
As we stand on the threshold of 2024, I find myself contemplating the journey ahead. It's tempting to say it's going to be a tough y...
-
Aubrey and Chris settle in for lunch and beverages before beach time. The morning spiritual practices were wonderful and already we ar...
-
A heart of gratitude is filled with appreciation, and appreciation adds value and raising life up. Today my love goes out to all people,...
5 most recently updated from the blogs I'm following
Designed By Templateism | Seo Blogger Templates