Self-images separate you from reality.

Years ago, Murray Oxman and I were driving around town. Doing business tasks for Success Without Stress, Murray observed and remarked that I was making a mistake with my driving. He said; “I was cutting over the double yellow line when I should be making a wider arch with my left turns.” He continued with, it was very dangerous because of opposing traffic in that lane. Realizing I had just made a left turn moments ago and also influenced by my image of being a good driver, I began thinking back. Surely he was mistaken. I replied: “Really.” Somewhat disturbed, but not showing it. In fact the more I thought about it, the more I was absolutely sure I was right. I’ll put more attention on my left turns. Boy was I about to be inwardly shocked, because as we continued to drive, left turn after left turn, revealed I was doing exactly as he said. Shocked, I noticed part of me was extremely sad at this new realization, but another part doubted that sadness and was getting very inspired. My image of being a good driver was being proven wrong and I could see clearly it had blinded me to what was really happening. How many other images were leading me astray and keeping me in the dark, unaware? I noticed a new and different spirit of being was emerging inside, a new untapped wonderment. A nice feeling that was foreign to me. My dull driving had instantly come alive. The day had come alive. Wow! A light switch had been flipped inside.

Shocked because that good driver image was so strong. Telling myself over and over I was a good driver and believing it and identifying with it. This lesson in ‘left turns’ has stayed with me for years and I smile, thinking of Murray every time I make a correct left turn. Yes, it was a challenge to change my behavior, but it was possible. If you want a change in your life, don’t change the exterior. Only a new nature inside will bring that about -an inspired spirit. Seek the unknown and unseen and it will seek you.