Chapter 6

[Donna]

Dr. Fredrickson uses the statement “bounce back from Life’s challenges” to talk about how positivity in terms of 9/11 and her cousin’s death. Her statement about the events of that time make me see this COVID-19 pandemic very similarly…there is a glaring omission though from the methodology she espouses, there is a lack of personal Faith / belief in a higher power or God from my reading of the chapter / book so far.

I can remember a lot of prayer and Faith (houses of worship/churches were packed and not just for funerals) being a part of those days following 9/11 for myself and the people I knew, similarly now in these times I find a parallel. With each new COVID patient I become aware of (and each sickness I am made aware of) lots of personal and group prayers go up. There is a powerful impact of connecting with others through prayer that has a positive impact on not only the person praying, but the recipient of the prayers.

I probably did not give this chapter enough of a chance, and I know Dr. Fredrickson touches on meditation with the “Broaden and Build” technique, but prayer / Faith is not necessarily meditation. Meditation is preparation for prayer. So I will keep on reading…if anyone would have any insight from their reading on this I would really appreciate the input.

Positivity is good, optimism is definitely needed, but the uncoupling of prayer / Faith and positivity for myself is tough as the two inextricably linked together.

[Donna]

“Undo-it effect” described by Dr. Fredrickson in this chapter is a nice place to perhaps pause and lead up to NEXT month’s book club selection “Undo It” by: Dean and Anne Ornish!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/052548...