7.2 The Folly of Wishing

Then you must give up wishing, for you cannot both wish and will. The two things are utterly incompatible. I have already explained this by reference to the will to pick up or not pick up a pen. It should be understood that indulgence in wishing is not only a waste of time, but also an invitation to harmful emotions. It is like slouching along the road instead of walking erect. The only proper attitude of the positive soul towards things, events and people is to accept them for what they are - not wishing them to be different - and then decide what to do about the matter. I am not confusing wanting with wishing. As a result of calm judgment and not of mere wish you can want to have something or to do some act. Even when you have said, ``I want this'', again you ask, ``Do I?'' And the wanting that comes out of this thoughtful intuitive poise will be a clear strong feeling, usable for polarization of a mood. ^7.2