Every quotation contributes something to the stability or enlargement of the language.
SAMUEL JOHNSON
1709–1784
THIS BOOK is an A–Z of experiences. Its aim is to help people with various aspects of their lives, to strengthen character and balance temperament. It can be dipped into again and again, whenever the appropriate help is needed. But the magic of this book will only be revealed when you have read every word.
Each word opens with a classic quotation to demonstrate that, although the world changes around us, human beings never change. We experience thoughts and emotions the same as people did centuries ago, and we still have the same problems. You may find that the quotation alone carries the age-old wisdom you seek.
Following a short insight from me, each key word also has a visualisation and an affirmation. The visualisation is short so that you can ‘live’ it as you read it. It is a trigger for the imagination and the self-healing process. See it in your mind, picture it from beginning to end, and you will find where the main problem lies. Then you can make the right decisions and change your life. If a particular visualisation does not in any way apply to your circumstances, you can modify it or create your own – that is why I have called the book A Mind of Your Own.
Many people believe that they cannot visualise, but if you ask them to remember a person or place that has been special to them, the pictures and feelings flow. Remember, the blockage is within you. Take your key and unlock the doors of your mind – you will be amazed at what you find.
Finally, you will find an affirmation at the end of each word to take with you when you close the book. It is the key to the rest of your life.
This is a book of life. In it you will find every emotion. You will laugh, you will cry, but you will never be bored. Enjoy!
Betty Shine
Whatever you do, stamp out abuses, and love those who love you.
VOLTAIRE
1694–1778
NO ONE SHOULD have to tolerate abuse of any kind, and there can be no excuse for this abominable practice.
Mental or physical abuse to any living thing should never go unchallenged or unreported. Never condone this behaviour.
Visualisation: You become aware that your best friend is continually abusing his girlfriend. When you confront him with it he excuses himself by explaining that, although he loves her, she irritates him. You try to reason with him, but to no avail. Are you going to stand by or give him an ultimatum?
Either he treats his girlfriend with respect, or he loses your friendship. It’s a tough decision but you follow through, because you know that you do not want to have these bad feelings in your life. Even a bystander can take action.
Affirmation: There is no excuse for abuse.
Now and then there is a person born who is so unlucky that he runs into accidents which started out to happen to somebody else.
DON MARQUIS
1878–1937
HAVING READ THE QUOTATION OPPOSITE you may find yourself thinking that you are that person. Think again. Through healing, I have found that the majority of accidents occur when people are under stress. If, as you read this, an accident has already taken place, then you are probably dealing