When I was growing up, it took great courage to ask my mother her reasoning behind the decisions she made on my behalf. Her explanation was always simple and direct: “I’m mama and I said so.” I knew by her tone not to ask again.
At church, I heard many do’s and don’ts. My home training taught me never to ask my Sunday school teachers to explain the why’s and how-comes.
In hindsight, although my inner voice kept reminding me, “I can think for myself;” I do believe these influences were made out of a sincere love for me, always for my protection and in my best interest. Nonetheless, this mind-set inadvertently spilled over into my relationship with teachers, bosses, and all authority figures.
In my quest for self-affirmation, it all came together. I will always remember the first time I heard a metaphysical interpretation of a bible story. Actually, its meaning was no different from what I had heard my entire life; however, the simple explanation of the existence of an inner life; i.e., a spiritual force operating in, through and as me caused me to pause and think about the possibility in a new way. The concept spoke to my reasoning power.
Suddenly there was a shift in my mind-set (state of consciousness). I had developed the maturity to choose or reject what I was hearing. No one else could do this for me. The prophecy was fulfilled, “I can think for myself.”
I have learned to listen to the wisdom, insights, knowledge and opinions of others. However, it is essential that I think for myself, regardless of the origin of the concept; be it in the field of academics, philosophy, religion, politics or science.
I now teach a ministry of HOW to think, not WHAT to think. This practice of personal freedom is crucial during these times of information, misinformation and disinformation prevalent in society. The one who is adept in this practice of right thinking, experiences the world completely different from the one who absorbs the opinions of whoever is speaking.
The choice is always to gaze upward or downward. The Law of Mind responds to each alike according to the direction of the mental vibration. We each experience life according to our beliefs, or thinking. The key word is “experience.” While we may not be exempt from the effects of human consciousness; it is through the art of ‘right thinking, we can say with the Psalmist, “yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, etc.”
“How” to think is to remember, affirm, and apply spiritual principles to all apparent conditions. Scripture puts it this way: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” 1
“What” to think is another matter. Individual choice is unlimited in its possibility of expression. After all, what we consistently think about eventually comes about in the material/physical realm of existence. I find this concept of an Immutable Law of Cause and Effect is empowering.
I say to myself, just think: The creative power of God, through which all things are possible, flows through my highest idea of good for myself and for all humanity and becomes that thing. Health, Wealth, Peace, Harmony, Unity, and Love are infused in all my thoughts.
I take courage and I think for myself during this Season of Light. I make wise decisions that keep me and my loved ones well and safe as well as my fellow citizens. My desire is a joyous holiday season for all.
“I think therefore I AM!”
By Keith Childers
StillPoint 
Thank you Rev. Mary for teaching me the SOMAS principles. Blessings Rose
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