The Core Beliefs
By Marsha Cook
(for the full article, click here: OM-Times May 2010 Edition) The last issue of Silver Threads asked the question “What is your truth” and began the explanation of how to embark upon a journey of frank and honest discovery. It reminded all how important it is to be an open and willing spirit; and provided that the earliest steps to be taken included healthy breathing, quiet space and the gift of contemplation, with a touch of optional journaling.
This issue will focus on something called ‘Core Beliefs.’ When you can tap into your core beliefs you will easily locate your truth. What is a core belief?
As with truth, let’s begin with what your Core Belief’s are not. They are not convictions that are shaped by life experiences or interactions, by success or failure. (By the way – is there really such a thing as failure?) A core belief is something you know deep in your heart. It is as simple as that. Oprah Winfrey writes an article entitled “What I Know For Sure” in every issue of her “O” magazine. It is always at the end; ‘the back of the book’ so to speak; the next to last page – it is the article you read after everything else, so her words of wisdom will remain with you. She writes about things she knows from way, down deep inside.
Everyone has a wealth of this profound knowledge within. Core beliefs are as much a part of you as your heart, your brain, and the air you breathe. Your core beliefs are your truth. When you live them, there is no doubt about your convictions, your integrity, or the way in which you make decisions.
Living from your core provides you with a path on which to journey that honors yourself in all aspects of your being. In the ‘marsha g. cook book of definitions’ honoring yourself and loving yourself are one in the same.
You may be asking, “Okay, so how do I recognize my core beliefs? Let’s dive into that right now. Turn off your phone, text message device, television, radio, etc! Take a moment, be sure you are seated comfortably and close your eyes. Concentrate on taking deep, slow, cleansing breaths. Best case scenario – you are relaxed and focused on the task at hand. This state allows you to connect with the “One” and the Universe. (Don’t look now, you are meditating!)
With an open mind ask to be shown one core belief. It will be something you know without all the scripted occurrences of your life. For example, you may discover that kindness is one of the most important functions of your being. Believing strongly in the act of kindness as a way to conduct yourself affects countless interactions, behaviors and decisions, for you, and for those with whom you interrelate. Take your time and allow the wisdom within to rise to the surface. When you are ready, come back to reading Om-Times and Silver Threads! Be sure to close with a deep, cleansing breath and as you exhale, allow a sigh to float away with your breath. A good, sweet ‘ahhh’ will close these moments with tenderness and serenity.
