Rev. Kathryn McDowell was the guest speaker at Centers for Spiritual Living-Prescott this morning. She highlighted some of the powerful words the founder of Science of Mind, Ernest Holmes, set down in his volume “The Science of Mind.” I had read a lot of the text more than 15 years ago, but had not studied it much over the years since then. I’m thrilled to say that since moving to Prescott, I’ve gotten involved with studying and practicing the philosophy again and welcomed Rev. Kathryn’s remarks.

She pointed out the Introductory chapters in the book that spell out what the philosophy is about:

I. The Thing Itself

II. The Way It Works

III. What It Does

IV. How to Use It

This Thing is the Power back of creation and can be used to improve our lives in all ways.

I knew when I got home I needed to take down my copy of the textbook from the shelf and start reading. I was inspired—and, I really need to make some changes and improve my life to feel happier and more fulfilled.

Looking through the text I was moved to glance at the short meditations Holmes shared of his ideas that came from his own experiences in mental healing. Below is one that resonated with me.

I Keep the Promise

I shall keep the promise that I made to myself.

I shall never again tell myself that I am poor, sick, weak nor unhappy.

I shall not lie to myself any more, but shall daily speak the truth to my inner Soul, telling It that It is wonderful and marvelous; that It is the One with the Great Cause of all Life, Truth, Power and Action.

I shall whisper these things into my Soul until It breaks forth into songs of joy with the realization of Its Limitless possibilities.

I shall assure my Soul.

– “The Science of Mind,” by Ernest Holmes, page 517

I practice positive, loving self-talk regularly, but there is always room for improvement. And, making a promise to myself feels empowering and exciting. We shall see what the future brings as I keep the promise.