Faith, how does it work?

Faith is a subject that is deep and wide.

1. It begins as a Thought, like maybe I should get into shape.

2. When the Emotion of Desire fits the Thought, it becomes a Hope. Could it be possible?

2. b. The Hope is made strong by Contemplation, by exploring, often by doing research. Always lay out the steps likely, or a detailed description of what you are creating as hope.

3. a. Faith begins. When we decide to act on the Hope, it becomes Faith. Initially the Faith is at least somewhat blind. Do I have the commitment?

Action feeds Faith. Poor results weaken it. When fragile, Faith should normally be nurtured by staying quiet about it. Sharing with someone who discourages us can even extinguish fragile Faith.

3. b. When several actions come out well, Faith becomes strong. With enough positive actions, positive fruit, Faith begets Confidence.

4. Faith is Replaced. When actions continue eventually it can reach the end ... Certainty.

Can one do 25 push-ups? Anyone who has recently been doing 35 of more will smile with Certainty. Certainty is the Perfect Knowledge referred to by the sages.

Character, Will Power and the discipline to Delay Desire are traits that contribute strongly to the ability to have and use Faith.

Patterns of humans who achieve a degree of greatness is one of my most favorite subjects.

-- Bruce