Mr. Smith was diagnosed with lung cancer at such an advanced stage that it would probably have little or no success even if aggressively treated with chemotherapy or radiation. The doctors estimated a life expectancy of six to nine months.

Mr. Brown was given a more moderate diagnosis. He had a bronchial infection, the result of heavy smoking and lack of exercise. He was advised to quit smoking immediately and clean up his lifestyle. As he left the doctor’s office, he threw out his remaining cigarettes and embarked upon a commitment to change. He began an exercise program that included walking and light aerobics; changed his diet to healthier, more natural foods and started exploring various ways to improve the quality of his life. On the rare occasion that Mr. Brown visited the doctor, he would receive a clean bill of health as his overall condition was always excellent.

Mr. Smith, on the other hand, was not so lucky. He passed away approximately eight months after his diagnosis, just as expected.

A decade had passed when the discovery of a clerical mistake was uncovered. The results of the medical examinations and laboratory tests of the two gentlemen had accidentally been switched. Mr. Brown received Mr. Smith’s results and vice versa.

What does this tell us? What valuable lesson can be learned from this twist of fate?

The power of our mind is omnipotent! How was it possible for Mr. Brown to survive the advanced stage of cancer that he had, unbeknownst to him? The operative word is, “unbeknownst.” The cancer was not part of his conscious reality; he had no idea that it existed within his body. That alone did not save him, however; coupled with his aggressive commitment to a healthy way of life, he was able to heal himself of a fatal disease.

Mr. Smith believed the diagnosis wholeheartedly. His mind accepted his destiny without challenge. His resignation to imminent death caused the life force to withdraw from within. He had neither will nor desire to live, thus permitting himself to expire, even though he was actually a healthy man.

The way we direct our thoughts determines our fate. We have conscious choices to make that will influence our perception of a condition or situation. Think of the positive values in a situation, not the negative! Take a pro-active role in your development and productive growth. If we realize the magnitude of our mind’s power, we can harness and direct this power to our advantage. “Mind over matter” is the thought power that can make miracles happen when your mind is inspired and determined. By contrast, if not so inspired, your mind can make your body inert, accident prone, even ill.

Fortunately, it is a two-way street: mind/body, body/mind. In other words, if your mind cannot inspire the body, let the body transform the mind. When we are mentally depressed, stressed, or emotionally challenged, rather than resigning to the mind, let the body take over. Get up and go for a walk; do some form of vigorous exercise that will change the chemistry in the brain, releasing endorphins and antihistamines. Your mental state and disposition will change by shifting the body. Don’t you always notice how much better you feel after a work out?

It takes discipline to make these shifts. Positive thinking is only the beginning. It isn’t an illusion of well being. It is a commitment to it. We must assess our priorities and steadfastly head toward them whether we’re feeling good or not so good. You always have a choice – so, be smart! It begins with a simple thought.

Right thought leads to speaking right words, which leads to right action. Right on!