Discernment can help us distinguish between fear-based and love-based thoughts, especially when facing uncertain outcomes. Instead of becoming attached to one specific result, we can remain open to life’s possibilities and choose thoughts that bring greater peace, joy and well-being.
By Sylvia Silk
Discernment helps us recognize the difference between fear-based and love-based thoughts.
In a world containing infinite possibilities, why do we choose to attach ourselves to only one? And then, if that one possibility does not come to fruition, we become very upset. We can actually make ourselves ill when we do not get the one possibility we have become fixated on.
Would we not be better served by not attaching ourselves to any particular outcome, but instead looking forward with eager anticipation to the possibility that Life, Love or Joy is sending to us?
What if we were open enough to receive and lovingly accept the possibility that actually came to us?
When we focus all our energy on fear, worry and anxiety about a future outcome we do not want, we unknowingly close the door to the good that may be coming our way. We divert our energy into manifesting what we do not want.
To manifest what we do want, we have to sharpen our discerning skills.
Fear-Based Thinking vs. Love-Based Thinking
One response to this idea might be:
“Oh, no, I couldn’t do that. I might get an outcome I wouldn’t like. So I’ll fret and worry about all the outcomes that I could get and don’t want, and pray that I don’t manifest any of them.”
This is an example of fear-based thinking.
Fear-based thoughts can disappoint and depress us. They keep our attention focused on what could go wrong instead of allowing us to remain open to what could go right.
A love-based thought, on the other hand, would respond like an expectant child on Christmas Eve:
“I wonder what wonderfulness is coming to me. I wonder what Santa, God or Love is bringing to me.”
I get all excited and happy just thinking about the good that wants to be delivered to me.
Learning to Love What Is
Remaining open to different possibilities allows us to receive what life brings.
I walk through a bookstore and a book title catches my eye. It is a book written by Byron Katie, the originator of The Work, called Loving What Is.
That is what a love-based thought settles on: it loves what is and what is coming.
It is a non-stressful and exciting way to think.
Rather than resisting reality or becoming consumed by the possibility of an unwanted outcome, we can practice accepting what is happening while remaining open to what may come next.
What Is Discernment?
Discernment is an attribute of someone who has learned to tell the difference between a fear-based thought and a love-based thought.
A master is one who chooses the love-based thought.
This does not mean ignoring reality or pretending that difficult situations do not exist. Instead, it means becoming more aware of the thoughts we choose to nurture and recognizing whether they are driven primarily by fear or by love.
The practice is simple, although it may take time:
Choose love-based thoughts over fear-based ones.
By strengthening our ability to discern between the two, we can approach uncertainty with greater openness, reduce unnecessary worry and create a less stressful way of living.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
1. What is discernment?
Discernment is the ability to recognize the difference between different types of thoughts, particularly fear-based and love-based thoughts, and consciously choose how to respond.
2. What is fear-based thinking?
Fear-based thinking focuses on unwanted possibilities, worry and anxiety about future outcomes. According to the article, this type of thinking can contribute to disappointment, stress and emotional distress.
3. What is love-based thinking?
Love-based thinking approaches the future with openness, anticipation and trust. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, it wonders what positive possibilities may be coming.
4. Why can attachment to one outcome be harmful?
When we become fixated on a single outcome, failing to achieve it can lead to significant frustration, worry and disappointment. Remaining open to other possibilities can create a less stressful approach to uncertainty.
5. How can I practice discernment in everyday life?
Start by noticing whether a thought is primarily motivated by fear or love. When possible, practice shifting your attention away from fearful predictions and toward openness, acceptance and positive possibilities.
