TEXT

IDEA

Opening is a process of turning our thoughts and feelings towards the beautiful and the positive. Some examples of processes and states in nature, in the person (thoughts, feelings, deeds) and relations:

• a flower opens up for the sunshine;    
• we open eyes to perceive the light;
• we open our minds to think positively;
• we open our hearts for positive feelings;
• we open for the good in every person;
• we notice the beauties around us;
• boundaries open between countries.

“The movements of the right hand resolve contradictions of the mind, while the movements of the left hand resolve those of the emotions… The movement of the hands from the chest outwards represents opening, while bringing them back to the initial position represents closing. In order to enter into nature, you must open. And once you have entered, you close: that is to say, you must not think about what you have left behind, about the old. The gate of the past must be shut, while that of the future needs to be open. It is the present which does the opening.. The right opening and closing of the door in other words (is) making logical, right and mindful conclusions in the area of thoughts and feelings”. [Beinsa Douno, Paneurhythmy, p.49]

1. Text: If “winter” and “cold” are metaphors for the cold, negative, discouraging states of mind and heart what are their opposites in the text? What is the antonym for “cast off”? Write in your own beautiful words a sentence/essay/poem about opening of the mind and of the heart to the nice and the positive.

2. Drawing: Draw a picture of a door/window opening to a beautiful view. Draw two pictures of Opening and of Closing: with images or colours or shapes. Draw an illustration to the exercise.

3. Questions: Name five good reasons to do what you are doing (studies, job) or live where you are living. What are the best qualities of your friend?

4. Experience: Tell us of situations and experiences when you have found something positive in a difficult situation/person. What is the feeling?

5. Imagination: Imagine while you play the exercise that you are in a dark room and consecutively with right and left hand you open the two wings of a closed window with beautiful view.  

6. Affirmation:   Write your own positive affirmation for Opening. For example: I open my mind to positive thinking. I open my heart to nice feelings.

7. Quote: Choosing to be positive and having a grateful attitude is going to determine how you're going to live your life (Joel Osteen). Find your favourite quote.