"Fully Human Fully Alive" 
                                                     A New Life Through a New Vision by John Powell SJ
                                                                                                              Chapters 1-8
                                                                                        (Copyright Argus Communications 1976)

*This is a book I read, and I would like to share with all those, like me, who constantly strive to be "fully human and fully alive" and fully  awakened, enlightened, and decent human beings! 
                                                                       Enjoy Jan


About The Book:
"John Powell begins Fully Human, Fully Alive with this premise: all change in the quality of a person's life must grow out of a change in his vision of reality. Fundamental, is the understanding, that emotions grow out of how we see ourselves, [and] out of subjective perceptions and interpretations. Powell suggests that fears, complexes, and negative emotions are traceable to faulty ideas and perceptions, and that to grow and become more fully alive, we must come to terms with irrational, unrealistic thinking. ... .
                                                                                                 ARGUS COMMUNICATIONS


* [This is not the whole book, but only portions of the book, that touched me the most, and that I would like to share.] 


Introduction - (by John Powell):
     "My brothers and sisters ...  My personal prayers vary, according to the experience and needs of each day, but one prayer is never omitted: "O God, my Father, don't let me die without having really lived and really loved!" "This, is my hope and prayer for you, too" [page 7: paragraph 1].

Excerpts of the Introduction from "Fully Human Fully Alive": 

     John Powell writes: "Over the course of my own life, and in my quest, for the full experience of human life, the most fulfilling and transforming moments, have been moments of 'insight'. Sometimes, these precious insights, that have widened the dimensions of my world, and intensified my participation in life, have exploded like the 4th of July", and at other times, "they have come like the dawn, slowly and gradually, bestowing a gift of light and life. As Carl Jung had stated, "the most meaningful moments of his own life, "were the moments of: faith, hope, love, and insight" [p.8:1]. Powell continues: Any knowledge that does not change the quality of life is sterile, and of questionable value. " ... if, the quality and emotional patterns of life are changed, the change is usually traceable, to some new insight or perception" [p.8:2]. Powell gives us a 'few personal examples' of his own insights, that he says changed him and has made a great difference in his adult life. Powell lists six insights, as follows:


"1. Obnoxious Qualities: (lying, bragging, gossiping, temper tantrums, and so forth) in myself, and in others, are really cries of pain and appeals for help.
2. A good Self-image, is the most valuable psychological possession of a human being.
3. The success or failure of human relationships, is determined mainly by success or failure at Communication.
4. The Full and Free Experience and Expression of all our Feelings, is necessary, for personal peace and meaningful relationships.
5. I am Not Personally Responsible for Solving the Problems of Others. Attempts to do this, can only keep the other person immature, and train him to be                dependent on me.
6. Love, must be unconditional, or it is a form of manipulation. Unconditional love, is the only kind of love that affirms a human being, and enables that person     to grow" p.8:3-p.9:1].
 Powell continues, "Our participation, in the happiness of a full and human life, is determined, by our personal perception of reality ( or vision)" [p.9:2].


     Powell adds: 

     "Through the eyes of our minds, you and I look out at reality (ourselves, other people, life, the world, and God). However, we see these things differently. Your vision of reality is not mine, and conversely, mine is not yours. Both of our visions are limited and inadequate, but not to the same extent. We have both misinterpreted and distorted reality, but in different ways. We have each seen something of the available truth and beauty to which, the other has been blind.The main point is that, it is the dimensions and clarity of this vision, that determine the dimensions of our worlds, and the quality of our lives. To the extent, that we are blind to [and/or] have distorted reality, our lives and our happiness, have been diminished. Consequently, if we are to change - to grow, there must first be a change in this basic vision, or perception off reality" [p.10:1].

Powell continues:

     "It has been generally agreed, that true and full human living, is based on three components - like the legs of a tripod: intrapersonal dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and a frame of reference" [p.10:2].   " ... a  frame of reference, is a basic perception of reality, through which we integrate, evaluate, and interpret new persons, events, and ideas". As a flexible person continues to integrate the 'new,'  his or her basic perception or vision is itself changed. But, it is always this vision, however modified, that controls the quality of, and participation,  in,  human life" [p.10:2-p.12:1]. Powell states, I have come, in my own way,  to the realization, that love, is the essential ingredient, in a program of full human living, and that love works, if people are willing to work at it. And, Powell continues, I had come to see that communication, is the lifeblood of love, and that the experience, and expression of emotions, is the essential 'stuff' of communication. I, had also come to realize, that no one can cause emotions in another, but can only stimulate emotions that are already there, waiting to be aroused" [p.12:2].

Powell poses this question, as follows:

     "Supposing a person were to act on all these insights, feeling perfectly free to experience, and in a mature way -  to express his or her loneliness, fear, anger, and so forth. Where, does the person go from here?  Will the simple and open expression of these negative and burdensome emotions, be sufficiently healing, to change the patterns , of his or her reactions? My own experience, with myself, and with others, leads me to believe, that a change in undesirable emotional patterns, can come only with a change in thinking - with a change in one's perception of reality or vision" [p.12:2-p.13:1].

John Powell states:

     "It now seems obvious to me, that our emotional reactions, are not permanent parts of our makeup, ... . Rather, they grow out of the way we see ourselves, other people, life, the world, and God. Our perceptions, become the habitual frame of reference, within which, we act and react. Our ideas, and attitudes, generate our emotional responses. Persistently negative emotions, are an indication, that there is a distortion or delusion, in our thinking, an astigmatism, in our vision [p.13:2]. For example, if I see myself as a worthless person, I can certainly anticipate many painful and persistent emotions: discouragement, depression, sadness, and maybe even suicidal feelings. But, if I can be brought to realize, by the affirming and unconditional love of another, that I am really a decent and lovable person of considerable worth, this whole pattern of emotional reaction, will be radically changed. As the distortion, in my perception of myself is eliminated, I will be gradually transformed, into a self-confident, assured, and happy person. Powell adds: If I think of you, as a friend and collaborator, my emotions, on meeting you, will be warm and positive. If I see you, as an enemy and competitor, my emotions will be just the opposite. To explain how two different people can perceive  the same thing or vision differently, he adds: [One night] two men looked out from prison bars. One saw mud, one saw stars" [p.13:3-p.14:1-2].


 Finally, Powell concludes: 

     "Consequently, if you or I are to change, to grow into persons, who are more fully human and more fully alive, we shall certainly have to become aware, of our vision and patiently work at redressing its imbalances, and eliminating its distortions. All real and permanent growth, must begin here. A shy person, can be coaxed into assuming an air of confidence, but it will only be a mask, [as]  one mask replacing another. There can be no real change, no real growth in any of us, until and unless our basic perception of reality - our vision, is  changed" [p.14:4].


Chapter 1: A Portrait of the Fully Alive Human Being

John Powell quotes Erich Fromm here, as follows: 

        "It would seem that, the amount of destructiveness, to be found in individuals, is proportionate, to the amount to which expansiveness of life is curtailed. By this, we do not refer to individual frustrations of [this or that] instinctive desire, but to the thwarting of the whole of life, the blockage of spontaneity of the growth, and expression of man or woman's sensuous, emotional, and intellectual capacities. Life, has an inner dynamism of its own; it tends to grow, to be expressed, to be lived. It seems that if this tendency is thwarted, the energy directed towards life, undergoes a process of decomposition, and changes into energies, directed towards destruction. In other words: the drive for life, and the drive for destruction, are not mutually independent factors, but are in a reversed interdependence. The more the drive towards life is thwarted, the stronger is the drive towards destruction,; the more life is realized, the less is the strength of destruction. Destructiveness, is the outcome of unlived life" Erich Fromm, Escape From Freedom [p.17:1].



Powell recalls an event a friend told him about, his friend related this story to him as follows:

       "... a large and restless crowd gathered on a pier. "  "... the object of all the attention was a young man making the last-minute preparations for a solo journey around the world, in a homemade boat". Without exception, everyone on the pier, was vocally pessimistic. All, were actively volunteering, to tell the ambitious sailor all the things that could possibly go wrong. The sun will broil you! ... You won't have enough food! ... That boat of yours won't withstand the waves in a storm! ... You'll never make it!  Powell adds,  When my friend heard all these discouraging warnings, to the adventurous young man, he felt an irresistible desire to offer some optimism and encouragement. As the little craft began drifting away from the pier towards the horizon, my friend went to the end of the pier, waving both arms wildly, like semaphors spelling confidence. He, kept shouting: Bon voyage! You're really something! We're with you! We're proud of you! Good luck, brother!" [p.17:2-p.18:1-2]. 


Powell explains: 

      "Sometimes, it seems to me, that there are two kinds of people. There are those, who feel obligated to tell us all the things that can go wrong, as we set out over the uncharted waters, of our unique lives. Such as, 'Wait till you get out into the cold, cruel world, my friend.' 'Take it from me.' Then, there are those, who stand at the end of the pier, cheering us on, exuding a contagious confidence: 'Bon Voyage!' [p.18:3]. This Bon Voyage type, is 'more concerned with what can go right, than with what can go wrong, more anxious to lead us to the well-springs of a full human life, than to warn us about crippling injuries which we might sustain, while trying to move along" [p.19:1].


 Powell suggests that, according to humanistic psychology, people, who are "fully alive, are those people, who are using all of their human faculties, powers, and talents, ... to the full extent." And, Powell offers "some observations, about what makes them healthy" [p.19:2], as follows: 


     "By way  of a general description, fully alive people, are those who are using all of their human faculties, powers, and talents. These individuals, are fully functioning, in their external and internal senses. They, are comfortable with, and open to, the full experience and expression of all human emotions. Such people, are vibrantly alive,  in mind, heart, and will. There is an instinctive fear in most of us, ...  and, Powell continues: We prefer, for the sake of safety, to take life in small dainty doses. But, The fully alive person, travels with the confidence that, if one is alive and fully functioning, in all parts and powers, the result will be harmony, not chaos" [p.19:3-p. 20:1].

Powell adds:

     "Fully alive human beings, are alive in their external and internal senses. They, see a beautiful world. They, hear its music and poetry. They, smell the fragrance of each new day, and taste the deliciousness of every moment. Of course, their senses are also insulted by ugliness, and offended by odors. To be fully alive, means to be open to the whole human experience. Fully alive individuals, have activated imaginations, and cultivated senses of humor. They, are alive, too, in their emotions. They, are able to experience the full gamut and galaxy of human feelings: wonder, awe, tenderness, compassion, both agony and ecstasy" [p.20:2]. 

   "Fully alive people, are also alive, in their minds. They, are very much aware of the wisdom, in the statement of Socrates, that 'the unreflected life isn't worth living'.  Fully alive people, are always thoughtful and reflective. They, are capable of asking the right questions of life, and flexible enough to let life question them. They, will not live an unreflected life in an unexamined world. Most of all, these people are alive in will and heart. They, love much. They, truly love and sincerely respect themselves. All love begins here, and builds on this. Fully alive people, are glad to be alive, and to be who they are. In a delicate and sensitive way, they also love others. Their general disposition towards all, is one of concern and love. And, there are individuals in their lives, who are so dear to them, that the happiness, success, and security of these loved ones, are as real to them as their own. They, are committed and faithful, to those they love, in a special way" [p.20:3- p. 21:1].

     "For such people, life has the color of joy, and the sound of celebration. Their lives, are not a perennial funeral procession. Each tomorrow, is a new opportunity, which is eagerly anticipated. There is a reason to live and a reason to die. And when such people come to die, their hearts will be filled with gratitude, for all that has been, ...  for a beautiful and full experience. A smile, will spread throughout their whole being, as their lives pass in review. And, the world will always be a better place, a happier place, and a more human place, because they lived and laughed, and loved here" [p. 21:2]. 

     "Fully alive people, precisely, because they are fully alive, obviously experience failure, as well as success. They, are open to both pain and pleasure. They, have many questions, and some answers. They, cry and they laugh. They, dream and they hope. The only things that remain alien to their experience of life, are passivity and apathy. They, say a strong 'yes' to life, and a resounding 'amen' to love. They, feel the strong strings of growing -  of going from the old into the new, but their sleeves are always rolled up, their minds are whirring, and their hearts are ablaze. They, are always moving, growing, beings - in- process, creatures of continual evolution" [p.22:1].

   But, "How, does one get this way ?," and "How do we learn to join the dance, and sing the songs of life - in all of its fullness?" [p.22:2], Powell questions.


Powell explains , as follows:

     " It seems to me that the contemporary wisdom on this subject, can be distilled and formulated, into five (5) essential steps to fuller living. These 5 steps, must be taken in the order given, thus, allowing each of the following steps, to build upon one's previous accomplishments [or previous steps]. * (In other words, the second step is built upon the first step, and the third step is built upon the first and second step, and so on.) " ...  while each [step], builds on, and grows out of the previous steps, none is ever fully and finally completed. Each, will always remain an ideal, to keep us reaching.  In terms of a vision or basic frame of reference, each of the 5 steps is essentially, a 'new awareness' or perception. The more deeply these perceptions are realized, the more one is enabled to find the fullness of life" [p.22:2].

 " ... the 5 essential steps into the fullness of life are: 
1. to accept oneself
2. to be oneself
3. to forget oneself in loving
4. to believe
5. to belong"   [p.23:1].


Powell next explains the difference between self-acceptance - which  leads to growth, and self-unaccetance - which leads  to inactivity or stagnantism:

      "Obviously, all growth begins with a joyful self-acceptance. Otherwise, one is perpetually locked, into an interior - painful and endless civil war. However, the more we approve and accept ourselves, the more we are liberated, from doubt about whether others will approve of and accept us. We, are freed, to be ourselves, with confidence. But, whether we are authentic or not, loving and living for oneself - alone, becomes a small and imprisoning world. We, must learn to go out of ourselves, into genuine love relationships. Of course, the genuineness of these relationships, will be directly dependent on the ability of a person, to be authentic - to be himself. Having been led out of self, by love,  one must then find a faith. Everyone must learn to believe in someone or something, so deeply, that life is charged with meaning, and a sense of mission. And, the more one dedicates oneself to this meaning and mission, the more such a person will develop a sense of profound and personal belonging, and discover the reality of community. Let us now, look at each of these steps more closely" [p.23:1].

John Powell now explains the Five (5) Essential Steps to Fuller Living, as follows:

"1. To Accept Oneself: Fully alive people, accept and love themselves as they are. They, do not live for the promise of some tomorrow, or the potential,  that may someday be reveal in them. They, usually feel, about themselves  - as,  they are the same warm and glad emotions, that you and I feel, when we meet someone, whom we really like and admire. Fully alive people, are sensitively aware, of all that is good in themselves: from the little things - like the way they smile or walk, through [to] the natural talents they have been given, to the virtues they have worked [hard] to cultivate. When these people find imperfections and limitations in themselves, they are compassionate. They, try to understand, not condemn themselves. ' ...  be gentle with yourself!' The wellsprings, for the fullness of life, rise from within a person. And, ... a joyful self-acceptance, a good self-image, and a sense of self-celebration, are the bedrock beginning [or Foundation],  of the fountain, that rises up into the fullness of life."

"2. To Be Oneself: Fully alive people are liberated,  by their self-acceptance,  to be authentic and real. Only people who have joyfully accepted themselves, can take all the risks and responsibilities, of being themselves. "I gotta be me!" the song lyrics insist, but, most of us get seduced into wearing masks,  and playing games. The old ego defense mechanisms, are built up, to protect us, from further vulnerability. But, they buffer us from reality, and reduce our visibility. They diminish our capacity for living. Being ourselves, has many implications. It means that, we are free to have, and to report: our emotions, ideas, and preferences. Authentic individuals, can think their own thoughts, [and] make their own choices. They, have risen above the nagging need, for the approval of others. They, do not sell out, to anyone. Their feelings, thoughts, and choices, are simply not for hire. "To thine own self be true ... " is their life-principle and life-style."

"3. To Forget Oneself in Loving: Having learned to accept and to be themselves, fully alive people proceed to master the art of forgetting themselves - the art of loving. They, learn to go out of themselves, in genuine caring and concern for others. The size of a person's world, is the size of his or her heart. We, can be at home in the world of reality, only to the extent, that we have learned to love it. Fully alive men and women, escape from the dark and diminished world of egocentricity, which always has a population of one. They, are filled with an empathy, that enables them to feel deeply [for others] and spontaneously with others. Because, they can enter into the feeling world of others, almost as if, they were inside others, or others were inside them;  their world is greatly enlarged, and their potential for human experience  [is]  greatly enhanced. They, have become 'persons for others' and, there are others so dear to them, that they have personally experienced the 'greater love than this' - sense of commitment. They, would protect their loved ones with their own lives."

Being a loving person, is far different, from being a so-called 'do-gooder'. Do-gooders, merely use other people, as opportunities, for practicing their 'acts' of virtue, of which they keep careful count. People who love, learn to move the focus of their attention and concern, from themselves - out to others.They, care deeply about others. The difference between do-gooders and people who love, is the difference between a life which is an on-stage performance, and a life which is an act of love. Real love, cannot be successfully imitated. Our care and concern for others, must be genuine, or our love means nothing. This much is certain: There is no learning to live, without learning to love."

"4. To Believe: Having learned to transcend, purely self-directed concern, fully alive people discover 'meaning' in their lives. This meaning, is found in what Viktor Frankl calls 'a specific vocation or mission in life' ." It is a matter of commitment, to a person or a cause, in which one can believe, and to which one can be dedicated. This faith commitment, shapes the lives of fully alive individuals, making all of their efforts seem significant, and worthwhile. Devotion, to this life task, raises them above the pettiness and paltriness, that necessarily devour meaningless lives. When there is no such meaning, in a human life, one is left almost entirely to the pursuit of sensations. One [people] can only experiment, looking for new 'kicks' - a new way to break the monotony and boredom, of a stagnant life. A person, without meaning, usually gets lost, in the forest of chemically induced delusions, the alcoholic fog, the prolonged orgy, the restless eagerness to scratch without even having an itch. Human nature, abhors a vacuum. We, must find a cause to believe in, or spend the rest of our lives, compensating ourselves, for failure". 

"5. To Belong: The fifth and final component, of the full life, would no doubt be, a 'place called home' - a sense of community. A community, is a union of persons, who 'have in common' - who share in mutuality, their most precious possessions - themselves. They, know,  and are open to one another.They, are 'for' one another. They, share in love - their persons [themselves] and their lives. Fully alive people, have such a sense of belonging: to their families, to their church, [and] to the human family [mankind]. There are others, with whom such people feel completely comfortable and at home [with], with whom, they experience a sense of mutual belonging. There is a place, where their absence would be felt, and their deaths mourned. When, they are with these others, fully alive people, find equal satisfaction, in giving and receiving. A contrary [obstructive] sense of isolation - is destructive, and  is always diminishing [when in the company of other fully alive persons]. It [the contrary sense of isolation] drives us into the pits of: loneliness and alienation, where we can only perish. The inescapable law, built into human nature, is this: We are never less than individuals, but we are never merely individuals. No man is an island. Butterflies are free, but we need the heart of another, as a home for our hearts. Fully alive people, have the deep peace and contentment, that can be experienced only, in such a home" [p.23:2- p. 28:1].

In conclusion, of Powell's 5 essential steps into the fullness of life, he sums it all up, as follows: 

   "So, this is the profile, the portrait of fully alive men and women. Having succeeded, in taking the five steps, ... their basic question, as they address themselves to life is: How can I most fully experience, enjoy, and profit from this day, this person, this challenge? People, like this, stand eagerly, on the growing edge of life. In general, they will be constructive, rather than destructive, in their words and actions. They, will be flexible, rather than rigid, in their attitudes. They, will be capable of constant and satisfying relationships. They, will be relatively free, from the physical and psychological symptoms, produced by stress. They, will perform well, in reasonable proportion, to their talents. They, will prove adaptable and confident, when change is thrust upon them, or when they have to make a decision, that will change the course of their lives. We, would all want to be like these people, and all of us, can be more like them. In the last analysis, it is a question of vision. It, is our perceptions, that make us fragmented or whole. Health, is basically an inner attitude, a life-giving vision" [p. 28:2]. 


Chapter 2: The Statistics, the Status Quo, the Speculation


John Powell adds, in his book, a quotation by Mary Jean Irion, from her book ["Yes, World: A Mosaic of Meditation], which I also enjoyed and chose to include as follows:

" (Norman Day),    let me be aware of the treasure - you are.
Let me learn from you, love you, savor you, bless you, before you depart."

"Let me not pass you by, in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow.
Let me hold you, while I may, for it will not always be so."

"One day, I shall dig my fingers into the earth, or bury my face in the pillow, or stretch myself taut,
 or raise my hands to the sky, and want more than all the world: your return"     Mary Jean Irion  [p.29:1].


Powell believes:

     " ... one's vision, the way one interprets and evaluates reality, is the key to one's emotional and mental health. The theory, is that, our perceptions cause our emotions, and affect our behavior. Consequently, we must begin with our thinking, with the way we are seeing things, with our vision. If we believe this, we will direct our personal growth efforts, to becoming more aware of our vision, and eliminating the faulty or distorted perceptions, that have become a part of that vision" [p. 29:2-]. Powell adds:"Internal aches and pains, tend to capture and hold hostage, the attention of most people. They live  'lives of quiet desperation,' as Thoreau once said. The greater part of their energies, is siphoned off by fears, angers, guilt feelings, hatreds, loneliness, and frustrations. They, have little zest and even less strength, to join the dance of life, or sing its songs" [p.30:3- p.31:1].


Powell continues:

     "Most people feel like tightrope walkers, trying to keep their balance, afraid of the stress, that can tip them into emotional or mental imbalance. Under any increase of social stress, the quiet desperation, has for many, flared up into acute and painful symptoms. And, "The shadow of violence on the streets, or in the home, has darkened the minds and souls of most American[s] ... ".  There are so many sources of stress that make contemporary life a precarious adventure. Most people, would be willing to settle for survival and safety" [p.31:2]. "There is something in us, that rebels at, and is reluctant to face them ... " [p.31:3]. The fullness of life, the glorious opportunity of living and loving, means very little to most people. They have 'had it' with life. Their hopes are dashed, and their dreams are broken" [p.32:2]. This brings us back to the basic supposition of our vision therapy: All change in the quality of a person's life, must grow out of a change in his or her vision of reality. And, There can be no real and permanent change, unless this vision is changed" [p.45:2].


Chapter 3: The Vision that Shapes Our Lives

 Powell includes this quotation, about observation and interpretation, according to Psychiatrist Rudolf Dreikurrs, as follows:

     "Unfortunately, children are excellent observers, but bad interpreters. They observe keenly, what goes on, but do not always draw the correct conclusions.
Most children, who feel rejected, are not rejected, but assume that they are, because, their impressions and interpretations, of what they observe are faulty.
We, are trying to change goals, concepts, and notions. Only such changes can bring about permanent improvement".
                                                                                                                                                                                                              Psychiatrist Rudolf Dreikurs,
                                                                                                                                                                                                          in Contemporary Psychotherapies
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       (M. I. Stein, editor)  [p.47:1]
Powell believes:

     "Every baby born into this world, is a living question mark. The first question asked, is about self: Who am I? The baby proceeds to discover physical reality: hands, feet, and so forth. There is the experience of wetness and hunger. Then, comes the discovery of personal emotional reality: security, insecurity, the need for gratification and attention. Somewhere, in the course of this ongoing awareness of self, the infant gradually discovers that, he or she is not the whole of reality,  [and] that all other beings are not merely extensions of self. This, initiates the startling discovery of - otherness. Who are they? Some are warm, some are cold. Some can be manipulated by crying, [and] others cannot [p.47:2- p.48:1]. The thing that all other people have in common, for the baby, is that they are there. They, are a part of the world. He or she must learn to relate to them. Thus, from the first days of life, the infant must begin the work of interpreting and adjusting to reality. As the eyes of the small body start to draw physical reality into focus, the small mind begins its own work of understanding, interpreting, and evaluating. It is the beginning of a vision, which will shape a human life [p.48:2]. So, as the baby grows up, he or she will develop a whole repertoire of psychologically adaptive reactions ...  ."  This process, will eventually constitute, the personalized interpretation of, and adjustment to,  reality of a unique human being. Most parents, claim to see the first emergence of a distinct personality, in each of their children, even during infancy. The perceptual patterns and adaptive reactions of each child, within a family, also have very different emotional colorations. It is very important to realize that, the individual adjustment, and emotional reactions, are the result of a very personal perception and interpretation of inner and outer reality" [p.48:3-p.49:1]. 

Powell goes on to add:

     "At all times, in every life, there is at least a tentative vision. It is a necessary result of the dynamism of the human mind. The senses pick up phenomenological data: sights, smells, tastes, sounds, and sensations of touch. These, are transmitted to the mind, which immediately begins to process and evaluate this material. Like a computer, the mind interprets all the different impulses, first grasped by the senses, and organizes reality into intelligible perceptual patterns: [p.49:2]."It is something like receiving one by one, the pieces of a mosaic or jigsaw puzzle. The mosaic, is reality. It does not come all at once, in a neat box. It comes piece by piece, in packages marked 'days'. Each day, brings new pieces. Every new piece, adds its own contribution, of deeper understanding, to the total picture of reality. We put the pieces together differently, because each of us perceives reality, in his or her own way. The qualities most needed for construction of an adequate and accurate vision, are openness and flexibility. The trap to be avoided is - rigidity' [p.49:3]. "Rigid people, cannot live comfortably with doubt. They, need to complete their pictures in a hurry. So, they put together only a few of the pieces, in a small and tight pattern. These few pieces, are all they need. More pieces, would only confuse them. To hear such people talk, they would appear to have more certainties, than anyone else. On the other hand, flexible and open people, keep accepting new pieces, [and] rearranging them, to modify their tentative patterns. They, are always ready to review and revise. They, appear to have fewer certainties, than the rigid people, and their conclusions, are always tentative" [p.48:4-P.50:1].

Powell also adds:

     "To use another analogy, rigid people are like detectives, who take the first scraps of evidence discovered, and immediately come to a definite and unshakeable conclusion, about the mystery they are trying to solve. If, any new evidence is uncovered, they insist on bending it to fit their original, premature conclusions. Flexible and open people, are contented with tentative judgments, which they keep revising, as new evidence comes in. Instead of bending the facts, to fit their conclusions, they keep revising their conclusions, to accommodate all the known facts" [p.50:2]. "Rigid people, live fixed and static lives, in a small world. They, keep their world small, so they can handle it. Though they won't admit it, they, are terribly afraid to attempt any more. If, they should open to reality, it would certainly overwhelm them. Their 'computers' would be jammed. This tunnel vision, preserves them from doubt and confusion. On the other hand, flexible people are growing people, who live in an ever-expanding world. They, sanely acknowledge that, change involves both danger and opportunity. They, know they can get hurt by possible miscalculations, but they also know that, nothing is ever final or irrevocable. If, one continues to review and revise, there can be no final failure" [p. 50:3-p.52:1].

John Powell explains how important having vision is, as follows:

     "The fact is this: We all need a vision, whether it is prematurely fixed, or in the process of constant revision. A vision is necessary, because of restless insistence of the mind, to find answers to its questions, and to organize reality, into understandable patterns. A vision, also gives us direction for behavior. It gives life predictability. My vision, says Powell, serves me as a frame of reference, [it is] a source of adjustment to reality. Because of my vision, whether it be large or small, tentative or fixed, I know how to act" [p.52:2]. "If, my vision or perception of myself, is that  I am no good, and that, people will not like me, then at least I know what my options are. For example: I can play, at being a loner, or I can become so repulsive, that people will leave me alone. Or, I can take the offensive, which is proverbially the best defense. By causing some kind of trouble, I can get at least 'negative strokes' " [p.52:3-p.53:1]. "If, in my vision of reality, I perceive others as evil or dishonest, I will know how to adjust to them. I will lock my doors at night, put zippers on my pockets, and confide in no man. Similarly, if I perceive life, to be an ugly struggle, in a valley of tears, I know how to act: Cop out! Get high on drugs, liquor, or daydreams. And, come into contact with reality, only when necessary or unavoidable" [p.53:2]. "In other words, we all have a vision, because of the very nature of the mind, and its instinct to interpret reality. There, is also a special need, for this vision, because it gives life consistency and predictability. A vision, enables us to know how to act. Without some kind of vision, we would be psychologically blind, stumbling and groping through completely uncharted territory. We, would soon be confused, and fragmented" [p.53:3]. 

Powell goes on to explain:

     "This vision, serves as an inner resource, by which we can gauge appropriate responses to persons, places, and things. It also, becomes the source of our emotional responses. As we have said, all our emotional patterns and reactions, are based on our perceptions. It doesn't matter whether the perception is accurate or not, the emotional response, will inevitably be proportionate to our perception. For example: let us imagine that, a child leaves a toy rubber snake on the lawn. If, I perceive it, as a real snake, it doesn't matter whether it is real or not.  My emotional reaction, will follow my perception" [p.53:4-p.54:1]. Emotions, are always the result of a given perception and interpretation. However, emotional reactions, to a given perception, can have a profound effect on further perceptions and interpretations. A perception, causes emotional reactions, and the emotional reactions color and distort further perceptions" [p.54:2]. " ... in prejudices, against other human beings; One bad experience, can distort our perceptions of whole classes of people [p.54:3]. "Thus far, we have seen that, this vision, which, is a highly individualized interpretation of reality, results from, the nature of the mind" [p.54:4-p.55:1].

Powell further explains:

   "Thus far, we have seen that, this vision, which, is a highly individualized interpretation of reality, results from, the nature of the mind.  As soon as we discover, otherness, in the form of other creatures, to which we must somehow relate [to] we begin to make this interpretation, and to construct a personal adjustment to reality. This vision, gives life predictability, and guides our behavior, by indicating appropriate responses. Finally, this vision, is the basis of emotional patterns, that define us as happy or sad, courageous or afraid, affectionate or angry" [p.55:1]. "There is one other result of this vision, which has a great and pervasive influence, on the quality of a human life. I would like to call this result, a 'basic question' or mind-set. It consists of a disposition in advance, or anticipation. Some people, are sure of eventual failure, whenever they attempt anything. Each of us, eventually develops a habitual, individual attitude, as we approach life: persons, events, specific situations, work, study, and play. The question, each of us habitually asks, is always an outgrowth of his or her vision or frame of reference. For example, one might question: What do I have to do to meet the expectations of others? or Will I look good or bad in the eyes of others? or How can this bring me attention?" [p.55:2-p.56:1]. "Of course, the basic question, with which each of us approaches the various persons and situations of life, is not applied in all situations, with absolute universality. Most of us, are capable of some variation. But, the vision, that shapes our personalities, is a habitual outlook, and we are creatures of habit. Habit, makes us repetitive. The natural, human tendency, to unity and a unified approach, leads us into habitual rhythms, cycles, and reactions. At any rate, the point is that, the basic question or mind-set, is a consequence of one's fundamental vision of reality" [p.56:2].

Powell continues:

     "The basic question, of the fully alive person, ... is this: How can I enjoy this person, place, situation, or challenge? No suggestion of hedonism or self-centeredness is intended. Nor, is there any intention of limiting the joy, in enjoy, to sensual pleasure, or emotional satisfaction, though, these would be included. The essential condition, for true human satisfaction, requires that, we remain fully active, in all of our parts and powers - senses, emotions, mind, will, and heart. I, cannot indulge my senses or emotions, at the expense of shutting down my mind, or turning off my heart" [p.56:3-p.57:1]. "In the question: 'How can I enjoy this?', there is implied, a strong positive mental attitude, a spirit of creativity. This basic question, is also multi-dimensional: How can I get and give the most?, How can I grow through this, and help someone else grow?, How can I most deeply 'live' this experience?, [and] What are the opportunities for loving and being loved in this day, this encounter, this situation?" [p.57:2].  "Fully alive people, find enjoyment in what others regard as drudgery or duty. They don't have to, they want to. They, are aware of the thorns, but concentrate on the roses. Each day, has a newness about it, it is never a carbon copy of yesterday. No person, including themselves, is today who he or she was yesterday. Since their vision is always tentative and open to modification, fully alive people, eagerly await new insights. These insights, will renew them, and their vision of reality" [p.57:3].  " ... changing one's thoughts, about reality, can change one's attitudes towards the facts, but it cannot change the facts themselves. ' ... fully alive people ...  grow into deeper, more sensitive, and more compassionate individuals" [p.58:2].

Powell states:

     "...  enthusiasts, can force the positive mental attitude, kind of happiness on people, whose basic vision is, in fact, negative and pessimistic. This, is really quite cruel. It amounts to urging the person to put a smiling mask, over his or her essential sadness" [p.60:2].

Finally, John Powell sums it all up, by explaining:

     "What we have to do is work with our vision. We, must become more and more aware of its contents, discover its distortions, and replace faulty perceptions, with those, which are true. The truth alone, can make us free. This, is not a simple matter. If, a person has spent twenty years building up a specific interpretation of, and adjusting to reality, he or she cannot be expected to change that vision, in twenty minutes. It, is not as simple as wearing a smile, or an 'I think positively!' button. There is no real growth, until the basic vision is changed, and growing is a gradual procedure, often accompanied by growing pains" [p.60:3].

Chapter 4: The Sources of Our Vision

Powell quotes Margret Mead, ["Sex and Society", in The Catechist]:

"From its earliest days, the child had to learn degrees of approach and withdrawal toward everyone around him.
He had to learn whom he could touch, in whose arms comfort and warmth could be sought, where distance was the safer course."
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Margaret Mead [p.61:1]

John Powell acknowledges:

     "If, we could compare a human being, to a tree, we would find, under ground level, at least five [5] major roots.These roots nourish, and tend to shape the total development of the person. They include a person's biological inheritance (brain, nervous system, and so forth), his physical diet, metabolism, social environment, and a unique structure of personality. All of these, affect to a great extent, the way people will perceive themselves, and the world around them" [p.61:1]. "There is, an undeniable, even if somewhat mysterious interaction of body and mind [or soul and spirit]. It is undeniable, that mental and emotional states affect the health of the body. Anxiety, can precipitate an attack of asthma. I am personally convinced that, health is basically, an inner attitude. However, there is no doubt that bodily conditions, conversely, can affect psychological states. Anemia or an imbalance in the chemistry of the brain, can bring on depression. This depression, of physical origin, can consequently distort the way one perceives reality. In other words, our vision of ourselves and the world around us, can be profoundly influenced, by physical factors"[p.61:2-p.62:1].

Powell points out:

     "As infants  - and later children, begin to discover and interpret reality, they are acquiring a vision, that is largely shaped by parents and other family members. Children, may distort some family messages, and their most impressionable stages, may unfortunately coincide, with darker days, in the life of their families. They, may not hear what others intended to say, or they may be most open to parents and others, during periods when they are least apt, to transmit a healthy outlook. However, for better or worst, a child's first tentative vision, will by and large be, that of his or her parents and family" [p.62:3]. Children, will see themselves, very much as their parents and other relatives have seen them. They, will learn to fear -  the things that their parents fear, [and] to love - that which (they) their parents love [and] to value whatever [they] their parents value. This process of 'osmosis', by which children absorb into themselves - the parental vision of reality, actually begins with intrauterine or prenatal [inside the womb] experiences. The peace or turbulence of a mother, while she is carrying her child, is transmitted to the child, through blood-chemistry changes and muscular contractions. The child, records these messages, in his or her developing brain cells and nervous system. The mother's tranquility, and her traumas, become the child's [as well]. Through these bodily messages, the mother is saying, to her child, that the world is safe and peaceful, or that it is dangerous and insecure. Thus, at least, to some extent, these messages will affect the child's evaluation of reality, and the basic vision, with which he or she will begin life"
[p.63:1].

Powell goes on to state :

     "From the very moment children receive the gift of life, they also begin to receive answers and evaluations. Along with these answers and evaluations, an emotional coloration is supplied, [such as, their vision may be]: 'Living in this world is difficult, the appropriate response to life is - depression'. Or, 'Life is an exciting adventure, the appropriate response is - a sense of eagerness and exhilaration'. Children, are generally docile, and ready to accept the evaluations and suggested emotional responses of their parents" [p.63:2]. "Of course, these perceptions, interpretations, and suggested emotional responses are not swallowed whole or at once. Repetition, is the mother of learning. The dynamics, in the development of a vision, are these: A child, in a definite human situation, and in response to definite stimuli, thinks a certain thought, for example: 'I have no worth of myself', and, 'My only worth, is to please others'. In successive, repeated situations of a similar nature, the child, thinks this same thought, repeatedly, perceiving the supposed fact of personal worthlessness, and the need to please. The original perception, is reinforced, by each incident. After sufficient repetition, what was at first a thought, and only [merely] a questionable fact, [now] becomes an attitude and a conviction" [p.63:3-p.64:1].

According to Powell:

     "When this happens, the original perception, has become a part of the child's vision. His emotional responses and behavior, will correspond to this habitual perception. He or she, will be sad and constantly seeking the approval of others. It is another example of the fact that, we humans are creatures of habit. Our habits define us. Our thoughts, crystallize into attitudes, and our attitudes coalesce into a habitual frame of reference - a way of looking at things, [or] a vision" [p.64:2]. "Both, in the transmission of messages, and in the ways they are received, the combinations and variables are infinite. Consequently, people develop unique visions, and act very differently. For example, through coded or explicit parental messages, children rightly or wrongly,  may perceive their worth to reside in: causing no trouble, or in getting good grades, or in being quiet, or in looking nice, or in being brave, and so forth ... .  Whether children have heard the messages correctly or not, whatever they have heard, will have a profound effect, on their lives"[p.64:3-p.65:1]. "In terms of the fullness of life, these early perceptions, are extremely important. If, children perceive themselves to be affirmed, by their parents, for what they look like, succeed at, or avoid doing, they will be trapped into frustrating visions and lives. To the extent that, they are loved unconditionally, they will perceive in themselves - real worth, identified with their persons [themselves], and not with appearances or accomplishments. If, they perceive only conditional love, which will be withdrawn, as soon as they stop fulfilling the imposed conditions, they will perceive themselves as worthless; and, they will feel 'used'. The emotional response, to this conditional love, will probably be a blend of anger, insecurity, and a strong need for approval" [p.65:2]. 

As to the importance of a child's perception of self, Powell continues:

     "We have said that, a baby's first question concerns self: Who am I ? The perceived answers to this question, and [the] consequent perception of self, will be the most important of all the parts of the vision, that is being formulated. If, children are loved, or perceived themselves to be loved - for themselves, they will develop a good self-image, and be on their way to fulfilling lives. {But], If they are loved, for what they look like, or can do for others, they are on their way to diminished lives" [p.65:3-p.66:1]. "The second question, of children, is about others: Who are they? Parents, will answer this question, more by example, than precept. Children, watch and listen for answers. They, watch the expressions on the faces of their parents, and listen to the inflections of their voices, as they talk to, and about other people. Parental reactions are repeated, messages are reinforced, [and the] child's thoughts become adult attitudes. Eventually, they [children come to perceive] other people, as:  essentially good or bad, collaborators or competitors, friendly or angry, trustworthy or suspicious, safe or dangerous, [and],  They feel secure, in this knowledge, [and], If you can't believe your parents, whom can you trust?" [p.66:2].  "Again, it should be noted that, the combinations and variables are infinite. For example: 'Our family and relatives are good, everyone else is suspect', or 'All people are basically good and decent if, they are treated well.' or, 'Some people are all right,but it is a safe rule, to test thoroughly, before trusting' etc. ."[p.66:3]. "The third category, in the total vision, that opens or closes a person to the fullness of life, is life itself. [The third question], the child asks is: What is life for? Who is a success and who is a failure at life? What is the most important thing to do in and with life? What is a full and satisfying life? The answers received, will become an integral part of the child's first vision and evaluation of reality. The child's first goals and ambitions, will be drawn from this frame of reference" [p.66:4-p.67:1]. 

Powell points out:

     "The general attitudes and value systems of one's parents, are deciphered, from their actions, as well as [from] their lecturing, from their reactions of satisfaction and disappointment, as well as their stated principles. Their example, more than their words, will carry an indelible message, to the growing child, about the nature and purposes of life. The life situation of the parents, during these early formative years of a child, is very important. It may be that, the parents are generally well adjusted, and possessed of reasonable goals and value systems. But, it may also happen that, financial reverses, health problems, ...  or one of many possible traumas, can tip them off balance, for prolonged periods. The life messages, transmitted to their children, during these periods, will probably be filled with distortions [p. 67, 2]. Possible messages, about the nature and purposes of life [are]: 'Life is exciting, it is a real adventure'; 'Life isn't easy, it is everyone for himself', 'You are worth only what you are worth in God's eyes', "You only go around once, so grab all you can while you can', 'Education is what is important. They can take everything away from you except your mind' [p. 67:2-3, p. 68:1]. Eventually, the child will be graduated from the home and family situation, but the old parental messages will continue to play softly on the tape recorder of the brain: 'Life is ... ', 'Success is ... ', 'The most important thing is ...'  " [p. 68:2].          

 Powell continues:

      "The first, inherited vision, has parts called: self, other people, and life. There will also be, transmitted, an attitude toward the physical world in which we live. Blessed, are the children, who receive a life-giving, energizing vision of the universe.  They, will be taught to wonder, to be filled with curiosity, [and] to admire. Their leisure, will be filled with nature walks, stargazing, planting gardens, bird-watching, and rock or seashell collecting [* self ]. They, will learn to care for their own pets, to distinguish species of flowers and trees, as well as cloud formations [* life ]" [p.69:1]. Sad, are the children of parents, who have no time for such 'nonsense'. (Unfortunately, many parents know that summer has arrived, only because, someone has turned on an air conditioner). Such people, are preoccupied with grubbing out a living, with making ends meet, and with watching sports spectaculars on television" [* other people]  [p.69:2].

Powell, gives us an example of  no-nonsense parents:

      "Mabel, did you hear what the kid said? He wants a new pair of binoculars for bird-watching! That's really a good one! No kid of mine will ever be a bird- watcher." Powell concludes:  "The child, of such parents will begin life with a 'deprived' outlook. He will be able to see, only a dingy little world. He will hear only, the sound of the air conditioner, and the voice of the announcer, endlessly describing a game, which some athletes are playing, on a field somewhere ... somewhere he isn't. He, will smell only the odors of stale beer, and pungent cigars" [p.69:2]. 

     "Finally, in the last category of reality, the child will receive an inherited vision of God. Many people, have differing thoughts about God, who he or she is, what he or she does, and so forth. " ...  there 'is an unquestionable part of all Jewish and Christian teaching: the love of God - for us" [p.71:1]. There are two  ways that God can be presented. One, is very healthy: it will affirm a child, and invite him or her to live more fully. The other, is unhealthy: it can only threaten a child, and diminish his or her prospects for life. In the second, distorted - as it appears to me, version, God loves us, only conditionally. He loves us if, and only if, we make ourselves pleasing to Him by obeying all his laws. However, if we fail: in thought, word, or deed, He will immediately withdraw His love.We, will feel at once, the shadow of Divine displeasure, falling across our lives. If, we fulfill the condition of perfect faithfulness, He, will then love us. If not, He will certainly vomit us out of His heart. It is a pretty heavy load to lay on a young mind and heart. If, children ... reject belief in this [kind] of God, they are certainly one step closer to the truth" [p.71:2]. 

Powell here,  explains the true nature of God:

     "The truth of God, as I find it, in Jewish-Christian teaching, and personally believe it, is that God, loves us unconditionally. He, says, through His prophet Isaiah: "I have loved you with an everlasting love! ... ." " If a mother should forget the child of her womb, I would never forget you ...  . " "I, have carved your name on the palms of my hands so I would never forget you".  Of course, we can refuse God, and reject His love. If you ever offered your love to someone who did not want it, you will know what this means. Such a rejection of God's love, constitutes the reality of sin. However, God changelessly, continues to offer us his changeless love. He, is not diminish in any way, by our rejection. His arms, are always open to receive us" [p.72:1]. 

Powell goes on to further explain:

     "The ideal of unconditional love, was dramatized for me in a story recently related by a well-known psychologist. It seems that a troubled married couple consulted a counselor. The wife complained that her husband was loving, only when she kept their house in perfect order. The man agreed that this was true, but maintained that, he had the right to expect a house in perfect order when he returned from a hard day's work. The wife, countered:"But I need to know that he loves me, whether the house is clean or not,  ... ." The counselor agreed with her" [p.72:2]. "Children, should not be taught that they have to win, earn, or be worthy of love, either the love of God or the love of parents. Real love is a gift. Real love is unconditional. There is no fine print in the contract. There is no price of admission. Simply: 'I love you!' (I have described this ideal of love at greater length, in my ... book: The Secret of Staying in Love). The God I know, would say to the person striving to earn or be worthy of his love: 'You have it backwards.' You, are trying to change, so that, you can win my love. It just doesn't and cannot work that way. I have given you my love, so that, you can change. If, you accept my love as a gift, it will enable you to grow. You, need to know I love you, whether you do your best or not, so that you will have the strength to do your best" [p.72:3 - p.73:1].

John Powell continues:

     "At any rate, Margaret Mead is right [when she stated], "The child, has to learn from his first teachers: 'degrees of approach and withdrawal ... , whom he  or she can touch, in whose arms comfort and warmth can be sought, and where distance is the safer course". Children learn who they are, and what they are worth, who other people are, and what they are worth. Children learn to cherish life, as a beautiful opportunity, or to despise it as a drudgery. They, discover that, the world is wide and warm and beautiful, or they walk along with eyes cast down, through an unexamined world. It is all a matter of the vision they inherit. This vision, is certainly the most important legacy of a child's parents, and first teachers" [p.73:2]. 

Powell next explains how children go, on as they mature, to revise their inherited vision:

     "Inevitably, children will revise this inherited vision. Their own observations and experiences, will to some extent: contradict, enlarge, and modify the pictures, that were drawn for them. We have said earlier, that the key to revising and modifying one's first vision,  the key to growth as a person, is openness and flexibility. We called rigidity, the trap to be avoided. Obviously, the more open and flexible a person is, or becomes, the more he or she will be able to change the inherited vision, and eliminate the distortions, that diminish capacity for the fullness of life" [p.74:3]. The rub, is that, some message of flexibility or rigidity, is also a part of one's inherited vision. Parents, transmit a disposition to rigidity or flexibility, depending on their own willingness to risk and revise. If, they are open, to the new evidence, that daily living constantly presents to us, their children, will perceive this, as an appropriate response. However, if parents are unwilling to live with doubt, and are consequently rigid, their children will probably see this, as the safer course. They, will, in the beginning at least, imitate their parents, in these inflexible postures" [p.74:2]. 

Finally, Powell continues to explain:

     " For example, If a little girl  comes home in tears, after a disagreement with a playmate, her father may bellow some rigid, categorical sentiment, such as: 'I told you that kid's no good!' 'Her whole family is no good!' Or, 'You can't get along with anyone'. 'From now on just stay home!'. Or, "Stay away from those Catholics (or Protestants, or Jews, or blacks, or whites)!" [p.74:3 - p. 75:1]. For, the kind of person, who says these things, 'all the evidence is in' on all the questions. He, is the personification of rigidity, and rigidity, is the formula for non-growth. It is also contagious. Rigid parents, tend to beget rigid children" [p.75:2]. Fortunately, as we grow up, new influences, and other messages, come to us, from significant other persons. There is a constant turnover, of new evidence in our lives. Through these sources, we can modify inherited tendencies of rigidity and inflexibility, as well as the other distortions, in our inherited visions. But, it isn't easy. Just to be aware of one's vision, is very difficult. We, are so easily deluded, by our own ego defense mechanisms. Each of us, has to contend with the deceits, of an illusory self, the person we would like others to see and accept. It is hard, for most of us, to distinguish this illusory self, from a real, but repressed self" [p.75:3]. 

Chapter 5: Persistence and Awareness (of a vision)

John Powell begins chapter five with a quote from Jose' Ortega y Gasset, as to one's own  unconscious distortion of reality or vision, as follows:

  "Take stock of those around you and you will ... hear them talk, in precise terms,
 about themselves and their surroundings, which seem to point to them, having ideas on the matter. 
But, start to analyse those ideas, and you will find, that they hardly reflect, in any way, 
the reality, to which they appear to refer, 
and if you go deeper, you will discover that, there is not even an attempt, 
to adjust the ideas, to this reality.
Quite the contrary: through these notions, 
the individual is trying to cut off, any personal vision off reality, of his [or her] own very life.
For life, is at the start, a chaos, in which one is lost.
The individual, suspects this, but he (or she) is frightened at finding,
 himself (or herself) face to face with this terrible reality, 
and tries to cover it over with a curtain of fantasy, where everything is clear.
It does not worry him, that his 'ideas' are not true, he uses them, as trenches, 
for the defense of his existence, as scarecrows, to frighten away reality."
                                                                                                                                Jose' Ortega y Gasset
                                                                                                                           "The Revolt of the Masses"


Powell posses important questions concerning "the persistence of our first, inherited vision", Powell asks:

     "Why does one's early vision tend to have such a lasting influence throughout life?" and "Are first impressions really that lasting?". Powell believes, "It would seem that we would be eager to give up the distortions that limit our happiness and diminish our possession of life. Of course some change is inevitable in everyone. It is the lack of profound changes that is puzzling" [p.77:2-p.78:1]. "Let us imagine a man, with a totally distorted vision. He sees himself, as a one man slum.He regards other people, as a mean and menacing. Life for him. is an endurance contest, the world is a snake pit, and God is little more than a cruel illusion. Obviously, such a man, would want to stop the world and get off. His perceptions, punish him brutally. Why doesn't such a person rethink and revise his vision? He, must notice that there are other people who are relatively happy" [p.78:2]. "If he were only willing to rethink and revise his basic vision, he could turn self-contempt, into self-celebration. He could move from pessimism, into optimism, from cynicism into trust. He could replace a negative mental attitude with one that is positive. Why doesn't he? To a lesser or greater degree, we all somehow resemble this poor man: [p.78:2]. Powell adds: "... we have been repeating, that the only possible way to grow and live more fully, requires a change in our perspectives. A limiting, punishing vision, is like a set of chains, that keeps us bound. We are held fast in the same place, each day - a carbon copy of the previous, and each year - a repetition of last year's sadness." " ... many of us remain voluntary prisoners of distorted visions ...".  " ... why  [are] we  so reluctant to rethink and revise the vision with which we began the journey of life" [p.79:1]. 

Powell continues:

     "When we human beings first look inward - at our own reality, and outward -  at the rest of reality, we immediately begin looking for order, patterns, [and] cycles. We learn to relate causes, with their effects. We, are looking for, in one word, predictability. Knowing what to expect, gives us a sense of security. It enables us to make decisions about how to act. Soon, our own actions and reactions fall into patterns, which are based on our perceptions and adjustments to reality. Life, becomes predictable, and our reactions take on consistency. We, are usually willing to act well or badly, to maintain this consistency. The opposite of predictability and consistency is chaos. Chaos, implies unpredictability and inconsistency. Chaos, boggles the mind, and fragments the spirit." " ...  a period of chaos,  [is] often referred to as [being] 'disoriented' " " ... disoriented people, have lost all sense of direction. Chaos, is a very frightening experience" [p. 79:2 - p.80: 1]. "And this is, perhaps, the main reason why we are so reluctant to change our vision, even when it is a cruelly imprisoning vision.  There is a lingering fear that in giving up the old vision, which has provided predictability and consistency, I might fall into the chaos. I, will be lost, without a guide. For example, if I were to give up a poor self-image, and learn to like myself, how would I act? ... ." " If I were to give up my prejudice, that others are basically dishonest and out to get me, how would I treat them? Would I have to start trusting others? Would I have to go so far as to reveal myself to others?" [p.80:2]. "The trouble is that, there are no guarantees that the new will be better than the old. Who wants to trade in a known, for an unknown, without some kind of reassurance? I know what I have, I am not sure what I will get, or even what I stand to lose" [p.80:3].  "In every change there is a death and a rebirth. Dying to the old and being born into the new, is a frightening prospect. And there is always that terrible moment between death and rebirth, when I will have nothing.if I give up the old vision, which made some sense of my life, and provided a source of direction for my behavior, will a new vision keep my life intact in the same way?" [p.80:3-p. 81:1]. 


Powell recalls a college student he had counseled, whose vision of herself was that of being socially inadequate, he explains:

     "The poor girl saw herself as completely inadequate in an adult social relationship. Because of her own self-perception, she could not relate as one equal to another. The only way she could adjust to the reality of dealing with others, was by playing a role of the 'perpetually troubled little child" [p.81:2].Powell adds: " ...  if "someone were to say to this girl: "You see yourself as inadequate, and you have adjusted to this supposed inferiority, by remaining a little girl. " ... you are not at all inadequate. You have fine gifts, and you are a fine person. You must learn how to relate to others on a basis of equality, as one adult to another". Theoretically, she should want to believe in her adequacy and equality. However, she has based all her perceptions and adjustments, on the supposition that she is inadequate and inferior. She, has become comfortable and practiced in this role. A suggestion, that she should change this faulty vision, and begin acting in a radically different way, would strike terror into her heart. She, feels safe behind her fences and the face of helplessness. Consequently, she will tend to cling to her original orientation. Unfortunately, in doing so, she has walled out a fuller and more human life" [p.81:3- p.82:1]. Powell adds: "All of us make definite evaluations of our human situation, and develop definite ways of coping, [and] of living within that situation. From that point on, it is practice till functionally perfect. To revise the original evaluation, would be like starting all over again, and there would be no certainty of success. Consider the young man who has perceived himself as unlovable, and has adapted to that supposed situation, by becoming a professional introvert and loner. What if, he were invited to revise his original judgments, and leave his human hiding places, to come and join in the celebration of life? He, would most probably cling to his vision and adaptation, with white knuckles, rather than risk the chaos of a conversion" [p. 82:2]. 

Powell continues:

     " ...  in this matter, of revising one's perceptions and adjustments, it isn't like stepping out of one set of clothes into another. Our original perceptions, ... had to be repeated, until they crystallized into attitudes, and were finally integrated into a vision. We, are creatures of habit. We cannot step out of old habits into prefabricated new ones ... ". The changing of habits, by its very nature, has to be gradual" [p.84:2 - p.85:1]. "However, staying in the old ruts isn't easy either. To  persist in the old, diminished vision, requires that one must constantly deny all contrary experience and information. One must stubbornly reassert his or her faulty vision in the face of mounting contradictory evidence.This, can be strenuous and exhausting. It results, over a period of time, in considerable inner tension and stress. And the stronger the contrary evidence, the more energy the poor person must expend in the mechanism of denial" [p.85:2]. This increased straining to deny, repress, and to keep our 'security operation' intact means that, we will be using more and more of our energy in this effort. We, will have less and less energy for living, enjoying, and loving. While we may not acknowledge the explicit nature of this contest, we will note that anxiety and nervous symptoms, physical indisposition and fatigue, will become an almost habitual condition. We, will become exhausted, defending our imprisoning vision. The vision that the poor victim of rigidity, tenaciously clings to, for peace and security, has become the source of considerable unhappiness and insecurity" [p.85:3]. "The person, who is trying not merely to get by during a difficult period, but to get out of a rutted existence and find the fullness of life, will have to revise his or her basic vision" [p.86:2].  

Powell adds: 

     " Our participation, in the fullness of life, is always proportionate to our vision. Whoever is not living fully, is not seeing rightly. However, to give up an old vision, in favor of a radically different perspective, always involves the limbo of the in-between, the temporary experience of chaos. This is why there is always an initial period of disorientation or disintegration. It is a necessary part of the growth process" [p. 86:2 - p.87:1]. And, " ... "it is likewise foolish to think that human growth can be accomplished instantly and without pain" [p.87:2]. "What is needed, ... is a revised view of reality, which will take into consideration and accommodate all previous experiences, and all available evidence" [p.87:3- p.88:1]. " ... individuals who are seeking a new vision, must go back, review the evidence of their life experiences, and revise the judgment, evaluations, and interpretations, which have been controlling their emotions, their behavior, and their lives. No help is possible, until they are willing to attempt this, and no change is real, until they have done it" [p.88:1]. Powell goes on further to add: "Now, let us turn to a different matter - becoming aware of my present vision. How do I bring my vision into consciousness, for the sake of inspection? Before I can review and revise my perception, I have to be aware of them. Only then, can I proceed to locate and modify the faulty perceptions, that are distorting my vision" [p.88:2].  "The first requirement, for finding one's vision and its distortions, is a basic disposition of willingness, to face the facts, whatever they be. It is a matter of courage and humility. This disposition of willingness, will involve a specific willingness to say: 'I was wrong.' This is not easy for most of us. We are so much in need of approval and respect, that we fear anything which might diminish our public image and sense of personal worth, such as admitting our delusions" [p.88:3]. 

Powell continues:

    In a larger dimension, we must be willing to admit a lesser or greater credibility gap, between who we really are, and who we pretend to be - between a real and an illusory self. Sometimes, this illusory self fools other people. We come off as intelligent, competent, profound, or whatever our pretense is. Sometimes, it even fools us. We, repress into our subconscious minds, the facts we cannot face, along with the fears, hungers, and angers, we cannot admit. We stubbornly deny entrance to the truth ... " [p.89:1]. "By necessity or choice, most of us engage in some form of self-deception. We keep our egos afloat, by some special ploy, and block out of vision, the rest of reality" [p.89:2]. "Man and his life are multidimensional. To live huddled in any corner of life, even if it is with an uncountable pile of money, is a life of serious deprivation. "I think that, the next step is indicated in the suggestion of psychiatrist Viktor Frankel: 'Let life question you' for, he "recommends this openness to be questioned by life, as a means to find out who we are and what we love" [p.90:2]. "He, points out that, most of us are forever questioning life: 'What will this day bring to me? ... , 'Will things go my way today?', 'What will happen to me ...?' 'How will this or that turn out? ... ." Of course, no one can help wondering out loud, in this way. But, there is a deeper wisdom in reversing the process, and letting life question us" [p. 90:3- p.92:1]. 

     "It is obvious to me, that each new day - along with all the persons and events of that day, does in fact question us, ... ." The death of a dear one asks me what I really believe about death, and how profitably I can confront loss and loneliness. A beautiful day or a beautiful person, asks me, how capable I am of enjoyment. Solitude, asks me, if I really like myself, and enjoy my own company.A good joke, asks me if I have a sense of humor. A very different type person, from a background very dissimilar to my own, asks me, if I am capable of empathy and understanding. Success and failure, asks me to define my ideas of success and failure. Suffering, asks me, if I really believe I can grow through adversity. Negative criticism, directed to me, asks me about my sensitivities and self confidence. The devotion and commitment of another, to me, asks me if I will let myself be loved" [p.92:2]. "Yes, everyday, does, in fact, question us. However, most answers do not pop out automatically, because we have quarantined them out of sight. Selective inattention, has buried so many of my memories, thoughts, and emotions - in graves of obscurity. My illusory self has served as a self-appointed censor, allowing me contact with thoughts and emotions, that are judged to be acceptable, but not permitting me those thoughts and emotions, which would threaten my fictitious identity" [p.93:1].

    "Someone has humorously suggested that, this repression and selective inattention, are governed by three deceitful old witches: Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda. Instead of honesty facing my true thoughts, I am led to deny them, by the conviction that, I should think some other way. I substitute in my conscious awareness,  the way I should think - for the way I do think. I, convince myself, that I do feel what I would like to feel. And, what I could do, becomes my preoccupation, rather than addressing myself to what I actually do" [p.93:2]. "One helpful way to facilitate this process, of being questioned by life, is a self-analysis of one's emotions. The most fundamental supposition of this book, is that our ideas (perceptions) cause our emotions. The patterns, of our emotional lives, are simple and tangible reflections, of the patterns of our perceptual lives" [p.93:3]. "Consequently, my first important effort must be a full, accurate, and conscious awareness of my emotions. I must have and acknowledge my emotions, before they can guide me to the perceptions, from which they have stemmed. Under every emotion, is a definite perception. If I were to live in sensitive awareness of my emotions, and be willing to dig for their roots, I would have easy access to the perceptions -  to the vision that shapes my life" [p.94:1]. 

Powell goes on to explain:

     "So, the first two requirements, for successful vision therapy, are a willingness to revise one's interpretations, and an openness to be questioned by life. A third requirement would be, finding times for silence and solitude. We are all victims of too much noise, too many distractions ...  called 'stimulus flooding'. To come into contact with one's vision, one has to practice some kind of active and sensitive listening to oneself. For such an in-depth effort, silence and solitude are indispensable. 'The unreflected life' to re-quote Socrates, 'isn't worth living'. The kind of listening I am suggesting here, is a peaceful review of the rhythms of one's recent life. It would include, a recollection of recent events, and one's personal responses to those events. Through analysis of the emotional reactions, the perceptions - under them will surface. . These, must be open to inspection and review, and to the extent needed - revision. " ... these perceptions, [can be] permanently revised. This, is the change of vision, that alone can bring fuller participation in life. For now, ... we are interested only, in locating or becoming aware of that vision. Silence, solitude, and reflection, are very necessary, to this effort" [p.96:2- p.97:1].


When recalling  a friends question: 'Are you enjoying your life?',  Powell reflects: "Life itself, had been asking me that question, but I wasn't listening" and Powell explains:

      "In answering my friend, I said: 'I believe in what I am doing. I find it meaningful. I think I am helping others. I ... well, no, I don't think I am really enjoying my life." Powell goes on to explain: The insight, of my answer surprised me. I had been thinking only in terms of commitment, meaningfulness, and service. Strangely, I had not been thinking in terms of personal enjoyment. I began taking my friend's question, and my answer,  into the think tanks of silence and solitude. There, it became clear to me that, even if a person is doing a fine thing for pure motives, if he or she is not enjoying it, something is wrong. No one should be deprived of joy in one's life and work.  Wanting to understand why, I seemed to be experiencing more struggle than joy, I tried to get in touch with the emotional patterns of my life. It was immediately evident, that frustration and anger, were too dominant in those patterns. I did find two faulty perceptions or distortions in my total vision. I think that they were largely responsible for the frustration and anger, which I was experiencing at that time. As these distortions have been more and more eliminated, I have noticed a proportionate diminution of those negative emotions, and an increase of joy" [p.97:2- p.98:1]. The distortions I found were these: (1) I saw myself as responsible for solving the problems of the many people who were coming to me for help. I was perceiving my value and identity, as essentially connected with my ability to dictate instant solutions to tangled problems, and bring immediate peace to all the sufferers. (2) I found, in myself, a strong, almost compulsive, need to please others - to meet their expectations. This delusion - that I had to be 'for others' and never 'for myself' was truly a ring in my nose, by which I was being led around. The discovery, of this delusion, led to a whole explosion of insights, about the need to love oneself, in balance with loving other people" [p. 98:2]. 


     "As I began acting on these insights, prompted by the question of a friend, and found in solitude and reflection, I began to experience more and more of the joy that had been eluding me. Of course, one has to establish insights - as permanent, by acting on them.  We, must 'do the truth' as well as believe it. We, must continue to act on our lights or the light will fail. The old distortions and emotional syndromes die slowly because, we are creatures of habit. New habits must be built from the ground up. However, the more one sees clearly the falseness or distortion of previous perceptions, the more one will be liberated from former tyrants, and begin to enjoy the fullness of life. There, should be quiet times in every life, for such reflection, reevaluation, and reinterpretation. It is also very profitable, if not necessary, to key into emotions - especially negative emotions, while they are being experienced. Memory, tends to distort. These emotional reactions can be more accurately traced to perceptual roots, and possible distortions, if they are inspected, while still on the vine. Such, are the requirements of vision therapy. When it has become a way of life, and one is alert to the signals of negative emotions - as symptomatic of perceptual distortions, a fuller and more human life cannot be far away" [p.98:3-p.99:1-3].


Chapter 6: Some Common Misconceptions

Powell begins chapter 6, with quotes that emphasize  destructive, irrational world vision:

... the task of logotherapy, is to reveal the flaws in improper logical grounds for a world-view, and thereby to effect a readjustment of that view.
                                                                                                                                                                                       Psychitrist Viktor Frankl,
                                                                                                                                                                                      "The Doctor and the Soul"  [p.101:1]


Most neurotic suffering results from an erroneous outlook.
In one way or another, the neurotic has acquired a picture of his place in life which simply isn't true.
Feeling helpless, in the midst of conflicting claims, he allows his life to be molded by circumstances, 
until he feels himself to be little more than a victim of fate.


Can any therapy really serve its purpose, if unrealistic views of life are left unchallenged? ... 
Recognizing how an individual's vision is limited by his own life experience, 
Frankl perceives the therapeutic task, as including the marshaling of arguments to challenge destructive world views.
                                                                                                                                                                                                              Psychologist Robert Leslie,                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                Jesus and Logotherapy   [p.1012]

Powell believes: 

     "To get to the distortions, that fester, like embedded sliver in the flesh of our emotions, some emotional clearance is usually necessary. After discharging painful emotions, verbally or non-verbally, we can usually think more clearly. Heavy emotions, tend to bend the mind out of shape. This emotional clearance, is like clearing the air or silencing a deafening noise. An overload of emotions, almost always obscures one's vision beyond recognition. This problem, is further complicated, by what I would like ton call a 'lifelong buildup' of emotions. Undischarged emotions, collect, and have a cumulative effect." For example: let us suppose that people who have outranked me (parents, teachers, and the like) have repeatedly called me 'stupid'. At such times, I could never discharge my hurt and anger, because these detractors were my parents, had positions of authority over me, and could punish me, or were bigger than I. After years of such accumulation, I might be ripe and ready to overreact. I will probably report a very deep hurt or a furious anger, at any suggestion that I have inferior intelligence. In other words, the next time someone calls me 'stupid' my reaction will not be directed exclusively to that person. In a very real way, my reactions will be directed to the hundreds of people, who have, over the years, been in the 'firing squad' which assassinated my intellectual self-confidence. I am really reacting to my parents, my teachers, my camp counselor, and the big kid down the block who picked on me: [p. 102:2-3, p.103:1]. Having a friend, who provides the needed atmosphere for free emotional communication, is an invaluable help, to vision therapy, and personal growth. Only when we exercise our right to have and to express our true feelings, do we become capable of finding the vision that lies under those feelings, and causes them. Emotions, are always an outgrowth of perceptions" [p.103:2]. "In a book called Outwitting Our Nerves (2d edition), two doctors, Jackson and Salisbury, have worked out a cause - effect schematic diagram, to illustrate how wrong ideas or misconceptions, lie at the roots of unhappy living, and social maladjustment. The diagram of the doctors, indicates that, all hope to restore a person to adjusted and joyful living, lies in reversing the formula, in correcting wrong ideas or misconceptions" [p.103:3- p. 104: 1].

Jackson -Salisbury Diagram for Maladjusted and Unhappy Living

Lack of adaption, to social environment, caused by
Lack of harmony, within the personality, caused by
Inappropriate emotions, caused by
Wrong ideas or ignorance

Working backward, the cure naturally would be:
Right ideas, resulting in 
Appropriate emotions, resulting in
Harmony, within the personality, resulting in
Readjustment, to the social environment    [p.104:2].

Powell explains:

     "Obviously, 'wrong ideas or ignorance' in the diagram, corresponds to what we have been calling 'misconceptions' or 'distortions' in one's basic vision. The message is the same: Health and wholeness begin in the head, with healthy ideas, energizing attitudes, a vision of vitality. When perceptions get twisted, one's emotional life also gets twisted, and these discordant emotions, cause disharmony in the total personality. At this point, you've got trouble ... " [p. 104:3-p.105: 1]. " ... helped to eliminate the misconceptions or distortions, at the bottom of their struggles, this will effect an immediate improvement, in their emotional patterns, which in turn will tend to harmonize the whole personality. Such people, are then enabled to relate comfortably with others, to enjoy life" [p.105:2]. "We have already suggested that there are five main categories in the spectrum of a vision: self. other people, life, the world, God. Most students of human nature, would probably agree that, of these five categories, the most important by far, is the first: how you see yourself. All ability to love, begins with and is conditioned by one's ability to love oneself. If we are to love others, and to love life itself, we must have a true love for ourselves, a healthy self-image, [and] a sense of self-appreciation. Consequently, the experts believe that, the most harmful and crippling distortions in anyone's vision of reality, are usually clustered in this area. Furthermore, the distortions in how we see other people, life, the world, and God, are usually traceable to some distortion in the way we see ourselves" [p.105:4-p.107:1]. (Abert) "Ellis theorizes that, a human being is uniquely rational and irrational. All emotional and psychological problems, are traceable to irrational or illogical thinking and ideas. This irrational thinking, and the consequent distortion of ideas, come mostly from learning experiences in early life, though such experiences, are not limited exclusively to childhood. " ... Ellis maintains that, people are not emotionally and psychologically disturbed by events or things, but by the views they take of those events or things. Consequently, Ellis sees all hope for happiness, and a full life, in the reorganization of one's thinking" [p.116:3- p.117:1]. 

Powell continues:

     "Though it has not been his main interest to evolve a theory of personality development, Ellis does say that the learning experiences of early chilhod, have the most profound effect on a person's rational/irrational thinking and behavior. The perpetuation of distorted ideas acquired in childhood, is the main source of unhappiness in later life. Since our thoughts or ideas cause our emotions, emotional balance, is possible, only through the adjustment of one's thinking. It is the faulty interpretation of a situation, that leads to emotional and psychological disturbance. Only by disputing the irrational, unrealistic thinking, can one be brought to emotional harmony and adjusted behavior" [p.117:2]. "Ellis, rather decisively, lists eleven irrational ideas, that are most commonly found, in emotionally and psychologically disturbed people. The first seven, are said to figure most prominently, in the development of anxiety. The final four, tend rather to produce hostility. After each of these most common misconceptions, I have given a short indication of the distortion found in the idea, and a similar indication of a more rational view of the same matter" [p. 117:3 - p.118:1], as follows:

"1. I must be loved and approved by everyone in my community, especially by those who are most important to me: 
Any unattainable goal, which leaves one with only the possibility of failure, is an irrational goal. No one will ever be loved and approved universally. The more effort one makes to attain such a goal, the more anxious, frustrated, and self-destructive one will become. A rational orientation in this matter, would certainly include the very human desire to be approved and loved. However, I can't get and don't need to have the love and approval of everyone, to have a happy and full life. I cannot sacrifice my own ideals, interests, and desires, to buy approval and love. When I am disapproved of, I will examine the validity of the criticism implied, in the disapproval, to see if the problem is mine or my critic's. If, it is mine, I will try to change. If, it is my critic's, it is up to him or her to change.

2. I must be perfect competent, adequate, and successful in achieving, before I can think of myself as worthwhile:
Another impossible goal is contained in this distortion. It can lead only to constant overexertion in feverish activity, a constant fear of failure, and an inferiority complex. Such compulsive need and striving usually result in psychosomatic sickness, and a feeling that I have lost rational control of my life. More rationally oriented people want to do well for their own sake and satisfaction, not in order to be better than others. Rational people, also want to enjoy what they undertake, to be led by interest, rather than driven by an obsession for success.

3. I have no control over my own happiness; My happiness is completely in the control of external circumstances:
This distortion, is of course, a lie, which I am tempted to tell myself, in order to avoid challenge and responsibility. It is sometimes easier to be a martyr - to roll over and play dead, than to reexamine my situation, and do whatever I can. The rational person, knows that happiness is not determined by outside forces and events. It is rather a matter of attitudes, and these cannot be coerced by outside forces, which at most, can be physically afflicting. Happiness or unhappiness, is ultimately derived from the way events are perceived, evaluated, and internally verbalized. Happiness, does, in fact, come from within, as the sages have been saying for centuries. 

4. My past experiences and the events of my life have determined my present life and behavior; The influence of the past cannot be eradicated:
 It  is true that, we are creatures of habit, and that relearning is difficult. The distortion is to believe that, it is impossible. This kind of passive acceptance or determinism, is often used to avoid the challenge of change. Rational people, know the importance of the past, and its influences, but they know that they can change by reevaluating those influences, reinterpreting events, and reassessing the perceptions of their original vision. Rational people, always remain bigger than their problems.  

5. There is one right and perfect solution to each of my problems.; If this is not found, it will be devastating for me:
It is obviously not true, that there is one perfect solution, for each problem in life. Furthermore, failure to solve a problem, with a perfect solution, is not catastrophic. We, can learn from and grow, because of failure. The anxious attitude implied in this misconception, will probably produce such anxiety, that problem-solving efficiency, will be considerably reduced. A rational person, knows, that there are options and alternatives in the solution of all problems. It is also true that, some problems are insoluble. We, must live with them, and learn the art of acceptance. When a problem-solving decision is upon them, rational people will consider all the options of the moment, and choose the solution, which seems most feasible - all things considered. 

6. Dangerous or fearsome things are causes for great concern. I must be prepared for the worst, by constantly dwelling on and agonizing over these possible calamities:
 The deception involved in this irrational thinking is that, worry and anxious anticipation, somehow help. In fact, they tend to prevent objective evaluation of the possible danger, and will diminish the possibility of effective reaction, should the calamity occur. Such anxiety and anticipation, may even induce the feared situation. Fear, tends o make that which we fear, come true. Such worry, also tends to exaggerate unpleasant events - out of all proportion.   
Every day becomes doomsday. Rational people, know that worry does not help, so they invest their energies in an evaluation of the situation, and a decision about what can be done to prevent possible tragedy. Rational people, do not presume that tragedy will occur. In the case of crippling fears,they will prudently and gradually dispel them, by acting against them. 

7. I, should be dependent on others and must have someone stronger than myself on whom I can rely:                                                                                
This distortion,is a gross exaggeration of dependency. It leads a life of 'being cared for' in place of independence, self-determination, and self-expression. This kind of dependency, has a tendency to escalate. I become more and more dependent. And the more dependent I become, the more I am at the mercy of the person on whom I am leaning. Rational individuals, want to be their own persons, to make their own decisions, to take their own responsibility. Of course, rational people aew willing to ask for, and accept help when they need it, but they will turn over their lives to no one. They, are willing to take risks, as part of the growth process. If they are wrong or fail, it is not the end of the world.

8. If my life does not work out the way I had planned, it will be really terrible. When things go badly for me it is a catastrophe:                                         
This, is a clearly irrational attitude, because things very rarely go exactly as planned. This attitude, invites frustration, as a normal state. Getting upset, does not help, but will make the situation worse. Furthermore, this attitude, makes the perfect achievement of one's plans a condition for satisfaction and happiness. This, is a good formula for frustration and ulcers. Rational people, will try to work at the successful implementation of their plans, but will improvise,  when things do not turn out. They, will develop a tolerance for frustration, and learn to enjoy the possibilities for growing, learning, and adjusting in situations of reversal. They, stay on top of the situation, instead of letting the situation bury them. 

9. It is easier to avoid certain difficulties and responsibilities than to face them:
The irrationality of this idea, is that it neglects the fact that, avoiding a task or responsibility, is often more painful and fatiguing, than doing what is required, without procrastination. Avoidance, always leads to further problems and eventually, to loss of self-confidence and self-respect. Rational people, spend their energy doing what they can, rather than devising escapes. If they fail, they study the cause of the failure, and try not to fall into the same traps. Such people, know that there is much more pleasure and satisfaction, in taking on difficulties and responsibiliti

10. Some people are bad, wicked, villainous; They should be blamed and punished:
This distorted idea, presumes that we have the ability to judge the responsibility, he conscience, and the knowledge of another. What may appear as evil, can be the result of insanity or ignorance. Rational people, know they cannot judge persons, but issues. They,have no X-ray eyes to see, the intention, conscience, or knowledge of another. They, confine themselves to an assessment of what is done, rather than attempt a judgment of the doer of the deed.

11. One should be very upset over the problems and disturbances of other people:
The irrationality of this attitude, resides in its self-destructiveness, and overeagerness to make the problems of other's one's own. This, is not to deny a healthy empathy for those who are suffering. However, the only way I am going to be of any help to others, is by retaining my own balance and peace of mind. Rational people, make a judgment, of the situation of their neighbors, and try to do whatever they can to help those in need. If nothing can be done, they do not surrender their personal peace, to an impossible situation" [p. 118:2 - p.125:1]. 

     "Ellis (1973) catalogs these eleven major misconceptions, into three categories. They are a rough equivalent of the five categories described previously in this book: self, others, life, world, God. Ellis, calls these three categories of distortions, the 'three whines' in each of which, something is 'awfulized'. They are the irrational attitudes, that e trouble:

1. Poor Me! (Awfulizes one's own self):
"Because it would be highly preferable if I were outstandingly competent, I absolutely should and must be. It is awful when I am not, and I am therefore a worthless individual."

2. Poor Stupid Other People! (Awfulizes what others are doing to me): 
"Because it is highly desirable, that others treat me considerately and fairly, they absolutely should and must, and they are rotten people who deserve to be utterly damned when they do not." 

3. Poor Stupid Life and Universe! (Awfulizes what the world is doing to me and my life situation: 
Because it is preferable that I experience pleasure, rather than pain, the world absolutely should arrange this, and life is horrible, and I can't bear it when the world doesn't" [p.125:3 - p.126:1].



Chapter 7: A New Life Through a New Vision:
 
John Powell begins this chapter with a quote stating that, mankind is the creator of  his or her own destiny, as follows:

"Man alone, of all the creatures of the earth, 
can change his own pattern.
Man alone, is the architect of his destiny.
The greatest discovery in our generation, is that human beings, 
by changing the inner attitudes of their minds, 
can change the outer aspects of their lives".
                                                                   William James,
                                                         The Principles of Psychology [p. 135:1]

     "Of all the aspects of the misconception hypothesis, and the system of Rational Emotive Therapy, certainly the most appealing is its fundamental assumption that we can change. Our lives, are to a very great extent, in our own hands. My personal instincts, and intuition, rebel, against the deterministic, fatalistic psychologies, which make us passive puppets, and make our lives phonograph records, playing out a pre-established program. In accepting the misconception hypothesis, we accept, to a great extent, personal responsibility, for our destiny. We, are not prisoners of the past. We, are prisoners of an exciting future. Let us now, very briefly, review the main principles of the misconception hypothesis, and vision therapy" [p. 135:2-3], as follows, numbered 1-10:

1. Misconceptions (also called 'distortions' or 'delusions') are mistaken beliefs, faulty ideas, unrealistic and unhealthy attitudes. They, usually come in clusters, since one misconception frequently leads to other related misconceptions in the same area. There are, five general categories to be considered: self, other people, life, the world, and God.

2. Some misconceptions, are relatively harmless or benign, because they do not noticeably affect emotional or behavior patterns. Other distortions, are crippling or malignant, because they produce painful and negative emotional patterns, which are disruptive of the whole personality, and social adjustment. 

3. Misconceptions, must be identified, before one can work at their elimination. When identified properly and adequately,   misconceptions,  are always specific and concrete. For example: 'I have to be approved by everybody, or I question my own worth'. Vague and unspecified delusions, are usually worthless abstractions, designed to obscure the real problem. For example: 'I think I have a tendency to think too much."

4. A person, can find a happy and fully human life, only to the extent that, these crippling misconceptions are recognized, and then modified or eliminated.

5. When, a person recognizes one of his or her delusions or misconceptions, it is a moment of insight. What actually happens, in such insights, is that we see - sometimes very suddenly, the distortion, in the way we were interpreting the evidence of personal experience. We see that, we were incorrectly putting together the pieces of the reality picture. 

6. The more flexible and open people are, the more insights they will acquire. Their emotional patterns, and ability to participate in a fully human life, will improve and grow with each new insight. 

7. Insights, can come at any time, and under any circumstances. There is no one sure way to acquire new insights, although, there are recommended procedures, that facilitate insight for most people.

8. The system, for eliminating misconceptions, through insight - which we have devised and are proposing, is called 'vision therapy'. It is a self-help method of growth. 

9. The misconception hypothesis, and the system of vision therapy, do not regard emotions, as the ultimate area of consideration or concentration. Emotions, are only indicators. Habitual patterns, of negative emotions, are always a signal of some underlying misconception. The target of achievement, is the elimination of such misconceptions, through insight, and the acquisition of healthy, realistic attitudes, in the place of these misconceptions. It may be that some discharge of pent-up emotions will be necessary, before some people are able to come to needed insights. 

10. Success, at vision therapy, is measured by satisfaction, and by growth, into a fully human and joyful life. Such progress, in turn, can be more specifically measured by growth -  in positive life-giving attitudes towards self, others, life, the world, and God. The composite of all these attitudes, is a person's vision - the way he or she sees reality. It is this vision, that determines the emotional patterns of one's life. Only if this vision is sound and healthy, can a person enjoy a truly happy and a fully human life" [p.136:1- p. 139:2].

     " ... Ellis, summarizes his own system of Rational Emotive Therapy, he calls it the ABC system. In every human reaction, there is an Activating event, a Belief system, through which the event is interpreted and evaluated, and a Consequent set of emotional reactions: [p.139:3]. "Some people, have enormous coping ability, and powers of resilience. Others, go into a tailspin, over trifles. Obviously, something comes into play, after the activating event, - which accounts for the great differences of reaction.This, is what Ellis calls, a 'belief system' and which we have been calling a 'vision' [p.140:1]. 

Powell goes on further, to explain: "Let us look at a diagram,", as follows:

"A: Activating Event
    Someone unfairly and harshly criticizes me, 
    and professes dislike for me.
B: Belief System
     I, must be loved and approved by everybody
     or, I lose all sense of my own worth.
C: Consequent Emotions                                                             
     Poor me! Depression, sadness" [p.140:2].             

    Powell continues to explain that, Ellis added two other letters, D and E to his system of Rational Emotive Therapy, and that "Ellis ... [believes] that, if we are to restore rationality, to our belief system, and emotional peace to our souls, we must:            

D: Dispute the distorted, irrational misconception in our belief system                                              
     I, don't have to please everyone, to be loved and approved, in order to retain a sense of personal worth.
     My critic, has the problem, not I.  
E: Event or experience, is transformed, by reinterpretation and reevaluation, which makes possible, the elimination of the misconception.                        Different emotional reactions: Continued self-confidence, personal peace, and compassion for the critic" [p.140:2-3 - p.141:1].      

     Powell believes that:

     "In the wake of strong and negative emotions, most of us do not attempt ant kind of a vision-therapy investigation of our belief systems. We, make little or no effort, to find out what is in us, that has caused such emotions to arise. We, know that there are probably many other people, who would not react as we do, to a given stimulus, but we still do not accept the challenge, to check our vision. We, are tempted to pass it off with ... : 'This is the way I am' or 'Sorry, but this is me!' Some of us, even try to recreate others, in our own image and likeness, by thinking that everyone really reacts as we do, but some just don't show it" {p. 141:2]. "Remember, that every activating event, has to flow through the filter system, of your own uniquely rational/irrational belief system. The consequent emotions, are not determined, by the activating event but, by the belief system. However, there is always hope, even if the emotional patterns are habitually and painfully negative. It is within our power, to dispute our belief systems, locating and eliminating specific misconceptions and consequently, transforming the events and experiences of our lives" [p.141:# - p.142:1]. To understand this, Powell adds, "Let us look at another diagram" as follows:

"A: Activating event of failure (at school, in work, in carrying out plans, etc.)

B: Belief that failure indicates something is missing in me
     My personal value is undermined, and permanently damaged by failure.

C: Consequent sadness, depression, discouragement


D: Dispute of misconception:
     I reevaluate and emphatically deny, that failure is an expose of personal worthlessness. 
     Failure, does not diminish my person.
     The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing. 
     It is true, that my efforts, resulted in a failure, but I myself am not a failure. 
     Everyone fails. 
    The successful person is one who profits from failure.

E: Event of failure has been reevaluated and transformed into a profitable experience and time of growth
    Because of the change interpretation of the event, the emotional reaction, is likewise changed 
    from a 'this is the end' depression, to a 'wait till next time' eagerness and enthusiasm" [p.142:2- p. 143:1].


Powell continues:

     "Since the main problem in any 'doing' is a positive intention and determination, we must now take up the question of motivation. We have already described the counterproductive reluctance, that almost everybody feels, to challenge his or her own presuppositions. The old vision, for better or worse, has served long and well. It, has given life predictability, and given us consistency, instead of chaos. The old, is always safe, even if sad. The new is untested" [p.143:2]. "Then, there are the children of the new beatitude: Blessed are those, who hunger after life - in all its fullness! They, have no appetite or willingness to settle for mediocrity in any form. These, are the pioneer people, who write new songs, study new theories, and build better mousetraps. They, are ready, to reexamine their belief systems. They, are ready for 'vision therapy' and anything else that promises growth [p.144:2]. Powell asks: 'Are you open to the idea that the difference between what you are and what you can be is a matter of ides, insights, a belief system, a vision? "The journey into a fully human, fully alive existence, requires certain 'supplies and equipment'. They are all, in varying degrees, necessary. [p.145:2], as follows:

"1. Openness and Flexibility: 
     You, must believe with all your heart, that you do not possess all truth - in proper perspective. 
    You, must be ready, to be questioned by life.
    Of course, every day, every event, and every person that touches your consciousness, is questioning you: 
    Do you love yourself?, Can you enjoy yourself?, 
    What do you think of failure?,
    Have you really recognized humanity and individuality?, 
    Have you made the discovery of otherness?,
    Do you like most people, or are they a bother? 
    The first requirement. to achieve a new life, through a new vision, is readiness - to hear and to attempt to answer the questions that life will ask you.

2. Sensory and Emotional Awareness:
   It is necessary, that you learn how to listen to your senses, and to register consciously, the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touches of daily life. 
  You, will have to hear what your body is saying: when it is tired and when it is tense. This physical awareness, is a prerequisite, for emotional awareness,             because every emotion is a perceptual-physiological reality. In other words, an emotion, exists, partly in the mind and partly in the body.  ... . It it this sensory    awareness, that will lead us to our deepest feelings, unless we employ some kind of blockage or denial. Jittery nerves, fatigue, and other bodily conditions,      can become for us, direct avenues to emotional awareness. " ".... every emotion, by its very nature, is partly physiological. The physical reactions, are usually    like the top of the iceberg, - the part that shows. " ..., we must learn to be in touch with our feelings or emotions.  ...". The way we perceive the situation, is in    fact, an intrinsic part of the emotion itself, because emotions are mental-physical realities. " ... when people explore their deepest feelings, they are              simultaneously exploring their deepest thoughts and convictions, because, emotions are partly perceptual. " ... there is no time in a conscious state, when we  are without any emotions, because there is no time, when we are not thinking. Much of the time, our emotional reactions are so slight, that we are not even  aware of them.  " ... if we are to become aware of our belief systems or visions, it is essential that, we be  attuned to our emotional reactions. " ... all negative  emotions, but especially anxiety and hostility, are signals of a malignant misconception, somewhere in our total vision. All negative feelings, from the mildest  discomfort, to the deepest depression, will lead us to a moment of insight, if we will follow. 

3. A Friend-Confident:
   A person, with whom we can be totally open, is for many reasons, an absolute requirement for growth into the fullness of life. " ... a friend-confidant, is    essential, for the successful practice of vision therapy. First of all, ... for many of us, some release of pent-up emotional turbulence, is necessary, before we can quietly review our belief systems, and find the troublesome misconception. Only the [kind of] friend-confidant, ... will be willing and able to handle the communication of these emotions.  "A person less close, will probably tell us not to cry or become excited"; and, "That person would not know us well enough to know what he could anticipate.  ..." Only a true friend-confidant, will know and love us enough, to provide this liberty of experience and expression. Alfred Adler says that, a warm human relationship, is necessary, to give people the courage needed, to face and understand their mistakes. Knowing, that someone loves us unconditionally, enables us to face and admit our delusions. We, can understand and accept ourselves - realistically, only when someone outside ourselves, first understands and accepts us". " ... reality of verbalization, is extremely important. The way we verbalize a situation, often determines how we will evaluate it. Very often, our reactions, are determined by the words we choose to describe the situation. We think in words, plan our lives with words, and tend to be very much defined, by our own verbalizations. If, we are interpreting and verbalizing a given situation, in a lopsided manner, dialogue with a [true, loving] friend, will tend to help us back to balance, and objectivity.  

4. A Journal:
 " ...  A journal, provides an outlet for emotional expression. " ... . Once we have put down the main activating event of a given day, together with our spontaneous emotional reactions, we an go back either at that time, or at a later time of quiet, and do a little 'vision therapy'. We can check out and challenge the validity of the belief system or vision, between the event and our emotional reaction to it. If, people were regularly to practice this kind of gentle, but persistent self-examination of their vision, I am sure they would find, as I have, many new insights, and an immediate change, in the emotional patterns of their lives. " ...  the more precise and vivid the verbalization in writing of this kind, the greater the likelihood, that misconceptions will surface, for recognition. The journal, should be kept  strictly private, if the thought of sharing it with a friend-confidant would diminish openness and honesty. The much better thing, ... would be sharing the contents of the journal with a [true] friend. Dialogue, has a way of illuminating, the darkened corners of consciousness and awareness. 

5. Times of Quiet Reflection:
  Those who write on the subject of misconceptions, are fairly unanimous, in agreeing that it is the presence of 'threat' in some form, that tends to cause and to camouflage distortions in vision. Confrontation, with threat, usually constricts vision. When we are threatened, we instinctively throw up defenses, and this almost always means that we will exclude certain evidence being presented to us (selective inattention). This new evidence, might force us to reevaluate our vision, and to admit delusion. It might challenge us to begin thinking and acting in a new way. We, tend to become more defensive than perceptive. It would be ideal, if a person could reserve some time at the end of each day, to relax, review, and reevaluate. Most of us, however, are too much in the clutches of clock and calendar. But, there are times, such as: train rides, while waiting for sleep, walking to and from stores, when we are waiting for someone who has been delayed, and so forth.  At these times, threat is usually minimal, and vision can be expanded, to receive new insights. Such times, are invaluable for growth into a fuller and more peaceful life. 

6. The Stretch Marks of Risk and Revision:
    There s no question, that we must act on insights, if they are to become the new habits of thinking, that will replace our old delusions.  They [insights], need       the support of emotional strength. They, must be incorporated, into one's life-style. No new truth is ever really learned, until it is acted upon. " ... let us              suppose that, I think of myself as  a 'problem-solver to the world.It is my vocation. Then, I come to the insight that, being a problem-solver is irrational. First,      it presumes that, other people are not big enough, old enough, or smart enough, to solve their own problems. Secondly, to solve another's problem, only          aids and abets his or her indecisiveness and immaturity. It cultivates in that person, an exaggerated sense of dependency, on the advice-giver. Lastly, being a    problem-solver, is an unrealistic and exhausting burden, for anyone to carry. It is foolish to play Atlas, holding up the whole world. There is another aspect of    learning and doing. Actual doing, obviously, completes the learning process. However, it also works in reverse. Doing, very often initiates a learning process. 
  Only in doing it, will I learn that I can do it, and thereby, dispatch another delusion. Everyday, we should all do something, that will extend us, we should win       little victories, over our fears ... " "We, will gradually learn in this way, about the undreamed of potentialities, which we had all the time, but never used. When   the opportune moment occurs, just do it. Win a victory over yourself, widen your vision, and your world, walk into a new and fuller life. Believing in    limitations, without testing them, can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. As long as you think you can't, you can't. So, don't let anyone else tell you, and above  all, don't tell yourself, that you can't.Learn that you can, by doing it. Practice disbelieving all the old lies and distortions, that you have been telling yourself,  and leaving unchallenged. 

7. Daily Exercise:
   Emotions, are most easily recognized and explored, while we are experiencing them. Memory, is selective. It almost always dulls and distorts. Because               emotions are a perceptual-physical reality, our perceptions and our vision, are built right into our emotions. Consequently, one's belief system, is uniquely  available for inspection, at the very moment of emotional turbulence. Insights, are perhaps more available to us, after some emotional clearance, and in a  setting that is threat-free, and conductive to reflection. However, there is a distinct opportunity for insight, during the emotional vibration, precisely because, our emotions are most real, and undistorted for us at that moment. It is a very valuable time for on-the-spot vision therapy. "I know from personal experience that, when practiced with a friend-confidant, and in a journal, one can develop considerable facility for this on-the-spot vision therapy. It soon becomes a way of life, and its benefits are soon evident. Sensory and emotional awareness, ... come first. There must be a constantly renewed intention to practice and cultivate such awareness. Then, we must go on to a gentle, but persistent inspection of the vision or belief system.  Remember that, there is no time when we are not experiencing some kind of emotional reaction. Consider these reactions: I feel shy, withdrawn, why?, I feel like a failure, guilty, Why?, I feel attacked, why?, I feel strangely sad, why?, I really enjoy this attention, why?, That remark really hurt me, why? [p.145:3 - p.160:2].

John Powell, next sums everything up, as follows:

     "Conclusion: For the average person, to continue any practice, over a long period of time, he or she must drive a satisfaction, or experience a success, greater than the price of effort paid. I. personally, very much hunger for the full human life, and of course, I want to find the wrinkles of irrationality, that diminish my participation in such a life. As I, continue to practice what I am preaching, I am aware of increasing peace and joy in my life. I have found out that, I am interesting, complicated, uniquely rational, and uniquely irrational. I have come to a much deeper understanding of my past, and present. I, eagerly await the future. And, most of all, I have come to like myself much better, by being this kind of interested, curious, and helpful friend to myself" [p.160:3]. 

"Here, are ten principles of full human living:

1. Principle 1:  Be yourself. Don't wear a mask or play a role.
2. Principle 2: Experience fully, and express freely your true emotions. 
3. Principle 3: Do not let fear of hurting another's feelings make your decisions, or prevent you from doing or saying what you think you should.
4. Principle 4: Assert yourself. You, have a right to be respected, to think your own thoughts, and make your own choices.
                          You, should be listened to, and taken seriously. Insist on this right.
5. Principle 5: Do not bend yourself out of shape, trying to please everyone - all the time.
6. Principle 6: Do not attempt to make yourself look better, by attacking, cutting down, or gossiping about others.
7. Principle 7: Look for what is good in others, enjoy and praise others for their good qualities and deeds.
8. Principle 8: Think of yourself in positive terms. Become aware of all that is good in you.
9. Principle 9: Be gentle and understanding with yourself, as you would like to be with others.
10. Principle 10: Do not judge another's accountability and subjective guilt. Forgive, wherever necessary. Bearing a grudge is self-destructive" [p.163:2-p.165]. 

     Finally, John Powell suggests that we should evaluate ourselves on five common personality problems, and to list them according to the most painful experience of them, as follows: "Oversensitivity, Resenttfulness, Irritabiity, Suspiciousness, Being Overly Critical" [p.167:2] Powell adds: "Successful vision therapy is based on repetition. Just as we have repeatedly thought the distorted thoughts, until they became habitual distortions in our vision, so we must now think the right thoughts, the rational and realistic thoughts, until they become new attitudes, replacing the old distortions" [p.168:4].


Chapter 8: Vision Therapy and Religious Faith: An Appendix for Believers:

John Powell, begins this final chapter by posing this question, what is the true concept of reality? 

     "One of the main assumptions, of the misconception hypothesis and vision therapy is that, there is a knowable 'reality'.We, need some version of reality, by which we can judge the rationality of our thoughts, and to which we can conform our vision or belief system. But, who is to say, what reality is? Cynics, are sure that they are in  touch with reality, in suspecting everything, trusting no one. Naive persons, are convinced, that everybody is really a true-blue Boy or Girl Scout, at heart. Poets, swoon at the beauty of a lake or forest. Others, see only a lot of water, or lumber. What is reality? Who, has conceived it correctly? Who, has misconceived it?" [p.169:2-p.170:1]. "Some suggest, that we use a 'universal consensus': Reality, is that which most people think it is. There are others, who offer the pragmatic solution of 'what works' as a criterion of reality. There are still others, who speak only, of an 'individual and personal' reality, suggesting that, each person, has his or her own reality. It is true, of course, that all of us perceive reality, whatever it is, in our own uniquely rational and uniquely irrational ways [p. 170:2].

Powell continues:

     "But, the practical question persists. How am I to see other human beings? Are we really brothers and sisters - in the human family, or are we enemies - on a common battlefield? Is there such a thing as, a free commitment of love, or are we really determined and predestined, to become whatever it is that we will become? Is life governed by the pleasure principle, the power principle, or the programming principle? Is this life all that there is, or is there really a glorious hereafter? Perhaps, the answers to these questions would not make a radical difference in my life-style, but they would definitely have some influence on my thoughts, choices, and perspectives" [p.170:3]. "Those, who believe in revealed religions, have a very definite criterion of reality. They, are convinced that, God himself, has told us, in his revelation, some very important things, about who he is, who we are, about our relationship to one another, about the purpose of life, and the significance of this world. There is no logic, of course, either to prove or  disprove the authenticity of this revelation of God. Ultimately, the test of faith, is always religious experience, which is highly personal and individual. Most believers, have at some time, felt the touch of God, a conversion-to-faith experience, in which they have found a new and distinct peace, power and presence. The intuition of faith, in this moment, surpasses the reach of all natural logic and scientific knowledge" [p.171:1]. "Because of my own religious background, and personal experience, I have accepted the message of Jesus Christ, as the master vision of reality. For me, the message and person of Jesus, are the source of objectification, for my own vision of reality. They are the basic norm, for my judgments and choices. I have chosen to live my life in the light of this revelation. I, want to be God's man, and to do God's work: I, want to help build a world of love and a human family of mutual understanding" [p.171:2]. 


Powell explains further:

      "Life, asks how much we can love, how much we can enjoy and endure. Life, asks us, if we love ourselves, and if, we love our fellow human beings. Daily living asks us to distinguish between what is really important, and what is unimportant in life:to choose priorities. Life demands, that we exercise the judgment of conscience: to choose whatever seems right, and to avoid whatever seems wrong. Perhaps, the most profound question asked by life, is the question of significance and meaning. All of us, have to find some purpose or mission in life, which will confer upon us, a sense of personal distinction, and worth. We, need to believe, that our lives will make a difference for someone or for something.  The German poet, Rainer Maria Rilke, counsels us to be patient, toward all that is unsolved in our hearts. He suggests, that we must learn to love the questions themselves, while waiting for, and working out answers. Growth, is always a gradual process, even if there are glittering moments of insight and a divine revelation"  [p. 172:2 -p. 173:1]. "My black evangelist friend, now an old man, tells me that, he now knows much more about the many questions which life asks. Life has questioned him about his values, and priorities, about his visions and dreams, about his courage and capacity to love. 'But,' he said to me, looking over his glasses, 'to all the questions life asks: Jesus Christ is the answer!' [p.173:4].  "Of course, this does not imply that, the answers, which Jesus applied to the problems of his life and times, can be imported and applied, without any change to the problems of our very different lives and times. Jesus, asks us to be as concerned and loving to our world and times, as he was to his. However, because all conduct, ultimately, is the result of a vision, the important thing is, to grasp the basic vision of reality, that Jesus had -  his inner attitudes and belief system. This, is the ultimate source of human health and happiness. These, Jesus has communicated to us, through his message and in his person: 

"I am the light of the world.
Anyone, who follows me, will not be walking in darkness.
He, will have the light of life. (John 8:12)"    [p.174:1-2]. 

     "There is an interesting dialogue, between Jesus and his contemporaries, recorded in the same eighth chapter of John's gospel. Jesus, makes the point that, only the truth, the full acceptance of reality, can make a person free.  If you make my message (vision) the rule of your life, you will then know the truth and the truth will make you free! [p. 174: 3-4]. When his hearers profess puzzlement, at this idea of liberation by truth, pointing out that, they have 'never been the slaves of anyone,' Jesus repeats that, he is himself, the source of true freedom: So if the Son makes you free you will really be free! [p.176:1]. True health. resides principally, in one's vision, in one's deepest attitudes. It is not merely the absence of symptoms. Likewise, true freedom, has its roots in one's basic vision of reality. It is not merely the absence of coercion - from external forces. I, see the person of Jesus, liberated, by a vision - that results in a startling freedom: "If you make my message (vision) the rule of your life, you will then know the truth, and the truth will make you free!". What is the vision of Jesus, which lies under his message, and manner of life? Whatever else it is, it is certainly a call to the fullness of life. "I am come that they may have life and have it to the full" (John 10:10)  [p.176:2]. 


Powell, next continues to explain the vision of Jesus:


     "At the risk of seeming presumptuous, I would like to describe some of the central features, of the vision of Jesus, as I, see them. I, think that the message, the life, and the person of Jesus are saying to us": 


"1. God is Love: 
This means that, all God does - is love. As the sun only shines, conferring its light and warmth on those, who stand ready to receive them,  so God - only loves, conferring his light and warmth on those, who would receive them. This means that , God does not have anger in him. He, does not punish. When we separate ourselves from God, and his love, by sin, all the change takes place in us, never in him. He, is unchangeably - loving. Love, is sharing - the sharing of one's self, and one's life.God's intention, in creating us in this world, was to share himself, and his life with us. In fathering this life in us, God calls us to be his human family, to become a community of love, each wanting and working for the true happiness of all.

2. You are Loved by God -unconditionally, are as you are:
 God, has assured you through his prophets, and through his Son [Jesus], that even if a mother were to forget the child of her womb, he, would never forget you. Your name, is carved in the palms of his hands, inscribed indelibly - in his heart. You, do not have to win, or earn, or be worthy of his love. It is a 'given'. Of course, you can refuse to accept it. You, can separate yourself from God's love for a while, or even for an eternity. Whatever your response, all during your life, and at every moment of your life, he will be there, offering his love to you, even at those times when you are distracted or refusing it. Wherever you are, in your development, whatever you are doing, with a strong affirmation of all your goodness and good deeds, with a gentle understanding of your weakness, God is forever loving you. You, do not have to change, grow, or be good, in order to be loved. Rather, you are loved, so that you can change, grow, and be good. Your realization, of this - unconditional love, is extremely important. God, was in Jesus - loving them, challenging them [his people/his children], all the way,  into greatness, peace, and the fullness of life ... "

3. The Providence of God rules the world. Jesus, is the Lord of human history:
 At times, you may experience the feeling that, everything is falling apart. You may wonder: What is the world coming to?, What am I coming to?, ... " You do not consciously, define or defend the thought, but sometimes, you may be tempted, to imagine God, with his back to the wall, furious and frustrated at the fact that, everything has gotten out of hand. You must remember that, this world, the course of human history, and human destiny, are in his hands. He, is in charge of this world. He alone, has the game plan, total knowledge of the human situation, and the power to turn things around - completely.  

4. You are called to Love: your God, your self, and your neighbor:
God - who is Love, has made you in his image and likeness. Love, is your calling and destiny. It, is the perfection of your human nature. Love, is also a gift of God - the highest gift of God's Spirit. It is necessary, that you realize the importance of loving yourself. If you do not love yourself, you will be filled with pain, and this pain, will keep all your attention riveted on yourself. Agony, constricts our consciousness. If you do not love yourself, you cannot truly love either God or your neighbor. So, you must learn to do the same things for yourself, that you would do  - in loving others. You, must acknowledge and affirm all that is good - in you. You, must gently try to understand, all that is weak and limited. You, must be aware of, and try to fulfill your needs: physical, psychological, and spiritual. As you learn to love yourself, you must also learn to balance concern - for yourself with others. But remember that, your success in loving, will be proportionate, to your openness, in accepting the love and affirmation of God. It will likewise, be proportionate, to the love which you have for yourself. In the end, the success of your life, will be judged by how sensitively and delicately, you have loved. 

5. I Will Be With You:
God says: I am covenanted -  committed forever, to love you, [and] to do whatever is best for you. I, will be kind, encouraging, and enabling, but I, will also be challenging. At times, I, will come to comfort you, in your affliction. At other times, I will come to afflict you - in your comfort. Whatever I do, it will always be an act of love, and an invitation to growth. I, will be with you, to illuminate your darkness, to strengthen your weakness, to fill your emptiness, to heal your brokenness, to cure your sickness, to straighten, what may be bent in you, and to revive whatever good things may have died in you. Remain united to me, accept my love, enjoy the warmth of my friendship, avail yourself of my power, and you, will bear much fruit. You, will have life - in all its fullness.


6. Your Destiny is Eternal Life:
 God says: By all means, join the dance and sing the songs of a full life. You, are on your way to an eternal home, which I have prepared for you. Eternal life, has already begun in you, but it is not perfectly completed. There are still inevitable sufferings. But remember that, the sufferings of this present stage of your life, are nothing, compared to the glory, that you will see, revealed in you someday. Eye, has not ever seen, nor ear, ever heard, nor has the mind of man ever imagined the joy, prepared for you, because you have opened yourself, to the gift of my love. On your way to our eternal home, enjoy the journey. Let your happiness - be double, in the joyful possession of what you have, and in eager anticipation of what will be. Say a resounding 'yes'!, to life, and to love - at all times. Someday, you will come up into my mountain, and then, for you, all the clocks and calendars will have finished their counting. Together, with all my children, you will be mine, and I, will be yours - forever" [p.176:3 - p.183:2].

Powell concludes, as follows:

     "This is, as I see it, the basic vision, proposed in the gospels (the 'Good News') of Christians. It offers a perspective of life and death - a vision of reality, that is reassuring,  and at the same time, challenging. It provides a needed sense of security, but also, meaning and purpose in life. It gives us a basic frame of reference, to understand ourselves, our brothers and sisters, in the human family, the meaning of life and the world, and God - as our loving Father. For the believer, it offers a vision of reality or [a] belief system, through which all the activating events of our human lives, can be interpreted and evaluated.It, is a reassurance, of what reality is, by the Maker of all - that is. The decisive factor, is personal religious experience, the touch of God. One, must be actively engaged, with and educated, by the Holy Spirit, who alone can make a person - a believer. Faith, is not a matter of logical reasoning, or a natural acquisition. It is a matter of experience. Only God's Spirit,can provide the needed religious experience. Only the touch of grace, can make the Christian message, more than a code of conduct, and comfort for pious, and plastic people.It cannot be repeated too often, that a living faith is not a human skill or acquisition. We, must be  touched by the Spirit of God. The difference, in one who has been touched in this way, is so profound, that St. Paul calls this person, a 'new creation'. Such a one, is as we say, a new person. St. Paul, calls a life, which has not  been touched and transformed by the Spirit, "life according to the flesh". The life, of a person, who has been renewed by the Spirit, lives a "life according to the Spirit" [p. 183:2 p. 185:1].  


Powell continues:

      "Jesus, says that, it is the Spirit, who gives us a certain instinct or intuition, that we are affirmed by God. It is through the Spirit, that we know we are his beloved children. It is the Spirit, who calls out of our hearts, the tender and loving word: "Father!" Even if we did once know Christ in the flesh, that is not how we know him now. And, for everyone who is in Christ, there is a new creation. The old creation, has gone, and now, the new one is here. It, is all God's work. It was God, who reconciled us, to himself, through Christ, and gave us the work of handing on this reconciliation. In other words, God in Christ, was reconciling the world, to himself ... (2 Cor. 5:16 - 19). St. Paul, himself, is so deeply moved by the reality of this complete transformation, that he expresses his personal experience, in the line: "I live, now, no longer I, but, Christ lives in me!" (Gal. 2:20). We have said that, we need a vision, when we look out at reality, through the eyes of our mind. When we perceive ourselves, other people, life, the world, and God, we have to make some kind of an interpretation or evaluation. We need some kind of order, and predictability, because we cannot abide chaos. It is the touch of the Spirit, that provides the kindof focus and clarity, that wwe need, in order to see clearly, and to live fully"   [p.185:2- p. 186:1].

     " In the first words, of the first Book of the Bible - Genesis, the Spirit of God, is depicted, as bringing the Order of Creation, out of the Primordial Chaos: "in the Beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Now, the earth was a formless void (chaos). There was darkness over the deep, and God's spirit hovered over the water. (Gen. 1:1-2). It is by this Spirit, that confusion and chaos, are transformed, into the loveliness of Creation. In the narration of the Flood, it is the same Spirit of God, that causes the waters of the flood - to subside. Again, he restores the Order of creation, out of the watery confusion and chaos. Through the prophet -  Joel, God promises that, "It will come to pass that, I will pour out my Spirit, upon all mankind" (Joel 3:1, quoted in Acts 2:17). It is the same Spirit of God, who comes on the Day of Pentecost, to transform the disciples of Jesus, from cowardly and confused men, into clear-headed and convinced apostles. The chaos, of their confusion, is replaced by great clarity of purpose. It is the Spirit of God, who directs the Christians of the early church. His action, appoints leaders, heals the sick, melts hearts, and enables people to love one another, in an overwhelming release of power, that will renew the face of the earth" [p. p.186:2- p.188:1]. 

Finally, John Powell concludes:

     "This touch of the Spirit, transforms everything in a person, and in his world. The person, is indeed, a new creation. The revelation of God, which might otherwise seem to be a fiction, is clearly a fact: a vision of reality. The touch of the Spirit, results in a deep harmony, peace, and order, replacing a kind of primordial chaos, in a human being's inner vision of reality. Consequently, all the emotional and behavioral patterns, of the person touched by the Spirit, are deeply affected. There, is a new sense of integration and wholeness. The person, experiences that "unity, which has the Spirit -  as its foundation, and peace -as its binding force" (Eph. 4:3]. As a new creation, this man or woman, is enabled, by the Spirit, to walk into the beautiful world of God, and into the fullness of the life, to which God has called 'his children' "  [p.188: 2].

John Powell ends his book with a writing of Gerard Manley Hopkins, S.J., as follows:

                                                                                                                      God's Gradeur


"The world is charged with the grandeur of God.
It will flame out, like shinning, from shook foil.
It gathers to a greatness, like the ooze of oil Crushed.
Why do men then now not reck his rod?
Generations have trod, have trod, have trod.
And all is seared with trade; bleared, smeared with toil.
And wears man's smudge and shares man's smell: the soil.
Is bare now, nor can foot feel, being shod.

And for all this, nature is never spent.
There lives the dearest freshness deep down things.
And though the last lights off the black West went.
Oh, morning, at the brown brink eastward, springs - 
Because the Holy Ghost  over the bent 
World  broods with warm breast and with ah! bright wings."

                                                                                Gerard Manley Hopkins, S.J.  {p.189]