How do we reframe our perspective, especially when it comes to everyday stress? Words have power when spoken from the heart and based on what is real. In other words, nothing contrived or pretentious. Words have influence, and it is influence that guides our perspective about everyday “things.” Words can carry a lot of weight when they become pertinent to a set of circumstances and situations in play. Superficial conversation usually offers little in the course of communication and connection, whether that is between people, or within oneself. Our ability to reframe our perspective is firmly founded in our ability to use words of influential assertion that provokes change.
For this week’s reading given the question and contemplation, the I Ching is:
Wind over Mountain; 53 as Original hexagram
Wind over Fire; 37 as the Expansion
Fire over Water; 64 as the Kernel
The text tells us that change is a gradual process, and one must change within, before there is change without. If we really want to learn how to reframe our perspective about a situation, then we have to look at the words we use, and how we use them, for ourselves internally, and how they are expressed outwardly. Words carry a lot of power within, and without. We can begin our practices of reframing immediately through the use of language; instead of saying “but” say “and”, instead of saying “I can’t” say “I can”, and begin to understand that upset is actually optional. Again, change does not come quickly, and we have to start where we are. Using words is a good and safe place to begin the reframing process, and soon the habitual tendencies of the past go away, and new more beneficial habits are cultivated.
Change is inevitable, and should we make the decision to go with it, we will find that reframing our perspective about circumstances and situations becomes more natural. And, it is constant work on the development of one’s moral compass and direction. “The Tree on the mountain is visible from afar, and its development influences the landscape of the entire region. It does not shoot up like a swamp plant; its growth proceeds gradually.”
We live in a time where we are faced with difficult challenges and tasks. Often times we feel the weight of obligation and responsibility. These feelings can seem overwhelming, especially in times of crisis or chaos. What if we took a moment of pause and practiced reframing the situation through the power of words? What would it say to us then? Perspective is developed at a very foundational level, and thus grows with us through the years. The good news is that it is adjustable; we can learn how to reframe our perspective and gain a new outlook.
Challenges and tasks are action items that can bring groups and teams together to accomplish a very important goal. Through the power of words in communication, new perspectives can take hold and create newly defined directions, with benefit and accomplishment. It all starts within us first however. We must make those changes within ourselves before we can truly influence and appropriately “handle” the external forces around us.
Have a wonderful week, and chose your words carefully. 
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