IT'S ALL IN YOUR MIND

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

 

From TODAY, Voices

Wednesday December 31, 2008

 

By Dr Bill Maier

 

You say you’re not happy with your life? What if I told you it was all in your mind?

 

Think of your brain as a computer that serves two purposes. It stores information in your memory bank, but it also transmits information to your heart.

 

When something happens to you, your brain takes it and puts it somewhere in your mind.

 

Then your mind sorts through that information and sends signals to your heart, telling you how to react.

 

Here’s the good part: How your mind processes that information is completely up to you!

 

You can’t always change what happens, but you have complete control over how it makes you feel.

 

You can decide to let your circumstances bring you down, or lift you up. And whatever you choose, your mind has to obey, because when it comes to emotions, you’re the boss.

 

Sound too simple? Why not try it and see if it works?

 

BABY ON THE BRAIN

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

 

From TODAY, Voices

Tuesday December 30, 2008

 

By Dr Bill Maier

 

First time mums often say that once the baby comes, they turn into a different person.

 

Things they used to enjoy doing suddenly hold no interest to them.

 

They lose their desire to read or exercise or go to yoga classes.

 

And cleaning house is the last thing on their minds. All they want to do is hold and care for their new baby.

 

They develop a serious case of “baby on the brain”, and wonder if they’ll ever snap out of it.

 

The good news is, it’s a natural phenomenon. In fact, it’s an integral part of the bonding process, and almost all new mothers experience it to some degree.

 

You’re not losing your mind, you’re just temporarily distracted – and that’s a very good thing.

 

HEALING THROUGH SEPARATION

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

 

From TODAY, Voices

Monday December 29, 2008

 

By Dr Bill Maier

 

Marriage is designed to be a lifelong relationship between a man and a woman. But sometimes conflicts become so great and unhealthy that the only solution is a time of separation. Some counsellors even recommend it – but only in severe cases.

 

When marriages become so entrenched in conflict that the couple can’t seem to talk without getting into an argument, something has to give. And sometimes the best approach is through a cooling-off period. This gives each partner time to think rationally, and to work on their personal and spiritual growth. It’s also a good time to seek counsel and support.

 

But it’s important not to think of a separation as a precursor to divorce. It should only be done as a means of rebuilding and strengthening a troubled marriage. And only under the guidance of a good counsellor.

 

Children need positive male role models

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

 

From TODAY, Voices

Friday December 26, 2008

 

By Dr James Dobson

 

Boys without dads – it can break your heart. I once heard of a man named Brad, who was waiting for a table at a neighbourhood restaurant when he felt something tugging on his pants. He looked down and was startled to see a little boy, about 3 years old, looking up at him.

 

The boy’s mother then rushed over and pulled him away. Brad noticed the woman was crying. “I’m sorry, “ she said, “but you look just like his father – he misses him terribly.” The boy’s parents were divorced and his father had dropped out of his life.

 

Children living in father-absent homes are more likely to have emotional and behavioural problems, to be suspended from school or drop out, to be victims of child abuse or neglect, to use drugs and to commit suicide as teenagers.

 

Dads, your child longs for your love, guidance and time. Mums, if you’re alone, make it a priority to provide your child with a positive male role model. Find a friend, relative, or coach who will make a commitment to befriend your child. An involved, committed man makes an irreplaceable contribution in the life of every child.