I have always had an affinity for quirky, unconventional heroes in cartoons, books and movies.

It has taken me years to understand why these heroes attract me so.  The skill of using this type of attention and focus is the result of a system called reticular activation.

Imagine thinking of a special color, then slowly but surely starting to see that special color around you, and in many things you see throughout the day. The reticular activator filters and curates the pictures, patterns, and connections you are subconsciously thinking about.

Now I know that ‘as within, so without’, I use it now to help me notice what I am noticing – as a way to confirm if I am indeed moving towards the goals I seek.

My interest in cartoons and paladin-type heroes are that they embody a creative mindset, a never-give-up attitude, and ability to adjust with zen immediacy to whatever comes their way, all the while maintaining their autonomy and personal inner values.

My ‘mentors’ walk out on clouds without falling, stretch like rubber, find clothes and wigs wherever they are needed, and never give up, even if at first they seem to lose!

The reticular activator is also the visible language of the inner spirit. I enclose an inspirational piece from another mentor, Napoleon Hill. 

A most beneficial use of time is silent meditation, while searching for guidance from within.

We all experience rare moments when a blinding revelation comes to us, when we suddenly see things differently than ever before. Usually, however, we learn the truth about ourselves gradually, over long periods of time, from quiet introspection.

We are all spiritual, but some of us have learned to tap more effectively into the great strength that resides in the spiritual portion of ourselves.

The spirit is not boisterous and noisy. Getting in touch with your spiritual self demands tranquility and solitude.

Make sure you dedicate a portion of every day to thought and study, to think and reflect upon your life. Choose a time and place that best allow you to relax your mind and devote your thoughts to reflection.

It is my hope that these thoughts and methods will help assist you in your search for purpose in your life.

All the best,