Different Roads to Mecca. This week has been interesting from a dog training perspective. My wife and I are first time dog owners and we bought a Malinois/German Shepherd hybrid. We are terrified because we want to do things correctly so we have a good dog and not a liability. We had two training sessions this week and they were informative for different reasons. One teaches praise only without treats and the other utilizes treats and “corrections.” What’s interesting is seeing how the dogs interact with both people. In both cases the dogs listen and do what they say with their different tactics. At this point, I’m not sure one is more “right” than the other. I’m sure there’s some behavioral export out there that will speak on intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation and ensuring that we avoid physical corrections.
Source: Imagery in Healing
Lesson: Far from being the duping of innocence in malingerers, placebos in the power of suggestion tend to work best in people who need and want to get well.
I’m interested to see where this book goes. It’s on shamanism in modern medicine. I still have no idea what shamanism is, but I’m excited to learn. Their quote was shamanism is the medicine of the imagination. In 50 Psychology Classics there is also the thought that we can change our depression our outlook by practicing a different mindset. This is the background behind cognitive behavioral therapy as well as “the Secret.” I think the repetition of a mantra is important to become who we want to be. My dream is that I can grow into being a person who expresses peace to others. Someone other’s find comfort in and can play with their dreams.
I practice the presence of God. I am filled with and express peace, love and joy. Thy will be done.
Source: Hero with 1000 Faces – Joseph Campbell
Lesson: Myths are how we set the foundation for our cultures.
With the internet and the podcasts I’ve been listening to there has been a continued focus on Carl Jung’s psychology. This inevitably leads to the works of Joseph Campell and the exploration of mythology throughout the existence of humans. What I find wonderful is that many of the concepts that I’ve celebrated are expressed in the traditions of many other types of people. I keep thinking, how do I balance the vertical thinking of Neitzche with the horizontal thinking of many of the world religions. How are the two concepts balanced together? Is our true calling to value each person the same or should we give more credit to those who produce more for society. I’m not sure these thoughts reflect anything from Campell’s work, and I’m curious to see what’s in store as I work through this book.
Album of the week – Brant Bjork – Jalamanta
Seeking Progress 