Upgrade.....................

     "Emerson was not just a contemplative theologian, however.  He was also a man of action.  A passionate abolitionist, he spoke out forcefully against slavery, calling it not just an institution but a 'destitution.'
     "How does this nineteenth century philosopher speak to us today?  Like William James, the great psychologist who followed in his footsteps, Emerson recognized that most of our difficulties start right between our ears.  The first key to resolving your problems is to upgrade your thinking.  'This time, like all times, is a very good one,' said Emerson, 'if we but know what to do with it.'
     "We also fail to recognize how our problems benefit us by strengthening us, advancing our interests.  When a man is 'pushed, tormented, defeated,' he wrote, 'he has a chance to learn something; he has been put on his wits; on his manhood; he has gained facts; learns his ignorance; is cured of the insanity of conceit; has got moderation and real skill.' "
-Alexander Green, beyond Wealth