I first read Norman Vincent Peale books when I was an undergrad in college. I had been promoted to a circulation clerk at the public library, and a kind patron shared his fascination of the author with me. Years later, that might have been one of the most meaningful interactions I ever had in that position.
I believe there is a mind-body-reality control and that we can choose positivity. No, life is not fair. Still, we can learn something from each interaction and experience we have. Even though this book was first published in 1959, so much of it is still relevant, if not more relevant, today. On page 214, Dr. Peale discusses the benefits of a daily walk. On page 1, he explains that positive thinkers refuse to dwell on negativity. On page 24 he reminds us the powerful impact of our thoughts. I need to challenge myself to the seven day mental health diet he describes on page 86 during which I should not allow any negativity in my thoughts or words. Wow! What a great challenge! Reading about remembering the happiest event of each day on page 87 made me smile and reminds me that each day is a gift. On page 138 he references Viktor Frankl with regards to the importance of exploring the idea of the meaningfulness of our lives. As Dr. Peale notes, if we can treat and condition so much in our lives, yes, it is of value to condition our minds to look for the positive. One of my favorite sentences was shared on page 161 when he explained it was transformative for him to hear a friend explain, “I am walking around the problem with prayful thought.”
In some ways, reading this book was like a meaningful interaction with an old friend. Our mind is a powerful part of our lived existence, and it is very much worth the effort to think about where we are, how we got here, and where we want to go. Yes, life is not fair, but so much if it is about perspective. Thanks, Dr. Peale. I have learned so much from you and my life is better and more positive because of you and your books.