THE ART OF DEFEAT
“There is an art in defeat which noble souls always acquire; you must know how to lose cheerfully; you must be fearless in disappointment.” [UB, 160:4.13]
Thought Adjuster: “Sore losers are bitter and suffer from a victim mentality while noble ones, knowing that they fought a fair fight, graciously concede defeat, doing their best to adapt to the new circumstances. Similarly, there is an art in winning in which noble souls are grateful and graceful, not ‘gloat-full’ and unfeeling. Espousing the right attitude turns both part
ies into ‘spirit winners.”
Monitor your reactional patterns, as your emotions impact the collective. Once anchored in your being, toxic emotions, such as hate, bitterness, and resentment, severely pollute your spiritual atmosphere. The high spiritual planes to which you aspire to gain access are loving, forgiving, and positive.
After venting your emotions, tender to your spiritual assets if you profess to be a loyal follower of Jesus. Follow his recommendations, and do not lose sight of your sacred mandate. Remain noble and steadfast even when the planetary tides seem counter-current to your fondest hopes.
“The children of this world fight for the establishment and enlargement of the kingdoms of this world, but my disciples shall enter the kingdom of heaven by their moral decisions and by their spirit victories; and when they once enter therein, they shall find joy, righteousness, and eternal life.” [UB, 137:8.7]
Evolution never stops, and each chess move calls for a countermove. And on it goes. Your voice contributes to the collective voice. Do not tune it down by entertaining low-grade attitudes, but give it a healthy boost by prayerfully rising above the situation and making the best of it.
Setbacks are opportunities to turn within and have an honest talk with Spirit who will always be your Cheerleader—especially in trying times. You will emerge feeling lighter and comforted. Take advantage of Spirit’s open-door policy. It will help you deal with your predicaments. Remain on the outlook for unifiers, not dividers. It is how Jesus conducted his ‘Christian’ ministry.”