In my signature there is a quote from Mahatma Gandhi. I have seen a similar set of ideas before in many differing forms. However these have always started with the idea of thoughts. In Freemasonry I have learned how to exercise some level of control over my thoughts. With some effort I have been able to replace some of my thoughts with others that more accurately reflect who I wish to become (instead of, for example, the sometimes petty thoughts that are more in line with who I used to be).
However I had seldom reflected on the idea that my beliefs are the origin of my thoughts, or effect that a change belief might have on my thoughts. I understand the idea that I can act with Charity even when I feel angry, because I can do what is right even when I do not feel like doing what is right. But my beliefs are the things that I believe are true. I also know that it possible for ones beliefs to change. But I am not sure how I can change them. How does one discard what they believe and install a new belief?
It seems to me that if our thoughts come from our beliefs, then our beliefs are the most important thing is our lives. If I do not learn to curate my beliefs, my beliefs are will be determined whatever I have been exposed to (intentionally or accidentally) in my life. Sometimes I have chosen my beliefs. As a boy I chose the beliefs of my church. As a man I chose the beliefs of Freemasonry. But along the way I also seem to have picked a lot of beliefs which do not serve me well. Perhaps I have just reached a new level in my life where I once again need to grow in order to feel comfortable. I am curious what others have done when they reached the point where they desired to discard beliefs but have difficulty letting them go.
However I had seldom reflected on the idea that my beliefs are the origin of my thoughts, or effect that a change belief might have on my thoughts. I understand the idea that I can act with Charity even when I feel angry, because I can do what is right even when I do not feel like doing what is right. But my beliefs are the things that I believe are true. I also know that it possible for ones beliefs to change. But I am not sure how I can change them. How does one discard what they believe and install a new belief?
It seems to me that if our thoughts come from our beliefs, then our beliefs are the most important thing is our lives. If I do not learn to curate my beliefs, my beliefs are will be determined whatever I have been exposed to (intentionally or accidentally) in my life. Sometimes I have chosen my beliefs. As a boy I chose the beliefs of my church. As a man I chose the beliefs of Freemasonry. But along the way I also seem to have picked a lot of beliefs which do not serve me well. Perhaps I have just reached a new level in my life where I once again need to grow in order to feel comfortable. I am curious what others have done when they reached the point where they desired to discard beliefs but have difficulty letting them go.