The Way of the Monk: The four steps to peace, purpose and lasting happiness

by Gaur Gopal Das

Monk Mindset: We must have a positive state of mind when dealing with problems. Think: Is there anything positive about this situation I am in? Being positive does not mean we neglect the negative. We must constructively deal with negative situations while simultaneously focusing on the positive. Just like our tongue can be obsessed with something stuck in our teeth, our mind has a default setting to be obsessed about the negative. Gratitude is a state of being that allows us to see the positive. It comes from realizing that there is good in the world, that some of that good is with us and that those good things are coming from an external reality. That state of consciousness imbues us with positivity. Even in times of difficulty and sorrow, we can feel inner strength, when we are grateful for the support of caring friends and family.