Since I have begun this period of introspection I have looked at and read many things pertaining to self help, self realization and personal growth. Most I discarded, or dismissed because they did not seem to have any relevance to me. I hope I did not make any mistakes. Of those I read, or paid attention to some, only a couple of them stood out. There were only a few that I took the time to read or understand. One of them of course was the Bible. It has too many passages and instructions that provide solace and help for me to have ignored and the other is something called The Secret.

   I had heard of The Secret on many occasions. I had read passages from it and I believe I recall a show that Oprah did dedicated to this topic. As many times as it had crossed my path I never really took the time to pay close attention to it. Like most times of trial and tribulation in my life I relied on myself to make it through the troubles I was facing. This particular time though I was in a place where I decided it was worth it to at least find out what it was about.

   There are many books, and TV programs dedicated to The Secret. I found the documentary and took the time watch it and really take it in. I am glad I did. Has it somehow transformed my life and made everything that much better? In a way it has. I look at things in a different way. I apply the things I learned from watching The Secret everyday in my life and I must admit I am happier, calmer and far more optimistic about the future. I no longer worry, fret, or wallow in the muck and mire of what has happened nor do I stand frozen, feet stuck in the brambles about fear of the future.

   The Secret takes the basic principles of self awareness and our place in this universe and with some help from almost every religion tells you how to use this knowledge to improve your outlook on life. It does not guarantee riches and success, or fame and fortune, it does however, let you in on a way of thinking that allows you to achieve what you want, accept what you have and not to think about what could have been, or should have been and it helps you get rid of the idea of "what if".

  The Secret uses basic ideas about the Law Of Attraction to guide to us to place in our minds where we can be comfortable with ourselves, and what we really desire. It provides insight into a way of thinking that frees one's mind from the shackles of fear and doubt. The Secret does not champion any religious ideals, or any one religion as the only way. It does however, contain tenets from all religions, including my own Christianity, in such a way that it becomes self evident to one that we are really meant to be happy, we are meant to have the things we want from life and it is okay to be successful, to be famous, or to be rich if that is what we desire. If you are wondering what The Secret is, find the DVD and watch it. Give it some thought and try to apply the principles that it espouses to your everyday life. I am doing that and I am realizing the simplicity and the nature of its tenets as I start over, over 50.