THE POWER OF THE MIND AND WORDS
When a child is born, they are immediately presented with the stark realities of life: survival or succumbing to challenges. From complications and health issues to the unpredictability of existence, life begins with choices. The human mind, an unseen yet complex part of our being, stands as a powerful force, rivaled only by the tongue—the most potent visible instrument of expression.
People often make daring choices based on their perceptions of life, guided by these two tools: the mind and the tongue. However, they seldom consider the consequences of their actions. While it is possible to counter negative thoughts by speaking positivity, aligning the mind and tongue in the same direction—for better or worse—makes the results nearly irreversible.
The Story of Layla: A Soldier in the Wrong War.
Introduction to Layla
Layla, a tall and striking war journalist with sharp features and short blonde hair, lived a life marked by adventure and struggle. She became a mother at 16, navigating her youth with a carefree spirit. Layla enjoyed her work, which took her across the globe, and often sought solace in fleeting relationships. But her carefree choices caught up with her in middle age when she was diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer.
Battling Cancer: Hope and Despair.
Initially, Layla believed she was going to die, but experimental treatments offered a glimmer of hope. As she swung between euphoria and depression, she struggled with the emotional toll of her illness. The treatments gave her a chance at life but also intensified her fears. She had been estranged from her daughter, Phebe, for years, as her dedication to work overshadowed her responsibilities as a mother. Phebe resented Layla for prioritizing her career over family, a rift deepened by the absence of a father figure.
A Tragic Revelation.
Layla learned that Phebe’s father had died in a fire. While driving with his wife, he had stopped to help at a burning house, hearing voices that his wife couldn’t. Despite her pleas, he entered the blaze and perished. The tragedy haunted Layla, adding to her emotional burden.
Losing Hope.
As her cancer metastasized to her liver and bones, Layla’s hope diminished. Feeling that survival was futile, she resolved to end her life. She obtained an illegal suicide pill from the dark web and invited a friend to support her during her final days. Despite her friend’s attempts to dissuade her, Layla’s determination to die remained unshaken. She believed that taking her life was her way of defeating cancer: “Cancer can’t get me if I get me first.”
Final Days.
Layla spent her last days finding small joys—enjoying the breeze, watering plants, and writing a new will. On a sunny morning, she bid her friend goodbye with a smile. Later, her friend returned to find Layla’s lifeless body, dressed immaculately, with her will on the desk. Layla had succumbed to her battle, believing it was the only way to regain control.
Lessons from Layla’s Story.
Layla’s story is a poignant reminder of the battles we fight within ourselves. She lost because she fought the wrong war, succumbing to fear and despair rather than holding onto hope. Suicide is not a solution—it is an act of finality that leaves behind grief and unanswered questions.
The Real War: Mind and Words.
Physical battles pale in comparison to the internal struggles of the mind. When your thoughts and words conflict, you become your own enemy. Negative thoughts and words can create a cycle of despair, while positive affirmations can pave the way for resilience and hope.
What do you say to yourself in difficult times? Do you allow negative thoughts to dominate, or do you counter them with positivity? Every word you speak has power—the power to heal, inspire, or destroy.
Finding Strength
To understand the power of the mind and how to harness it, consider studying resources like Power of the Mind by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. Such teachings can help you control your thoughts and words, empowering you to overcome challenges.
Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (Proverbs 18:21)
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