Methods
for Changing Character #2
Directed Imaging
The following collection of imaging methods,
found in Jewish ethical literature, complements
our discussion of the
place of imagination in character building
(based on Rav Dessler's discussion in
Mikhtav M'Eliahu 4).
Hearing
a shofar
A person should constantly imagine hearing
a shofar in his ears. (Yaarot Dvash -- Drush
1)
Humility
Meditations that aid humility: If a person
would have a clear image of himself, dirtied
with sin, flawed and full of shame standing
before the Divine Court with the Pure and
Holy King of Kings and all of his hosts -any
arrogance he had would dissipate immediately.
(Mesillat Yesharim Chapter 23)
Prayer
When one prays he should have a clear image
of the words (the form of the letters) of
prayer in his mind and intend to increase
the power of holiness though them. His prayers
should bear fruit above so the upper holiness
and light is increased. (Nefesh Hachayim 2:13)
The
Name of G-d
" . . . For if one constantly imprints the
4 letter name of Hashem on his heart, as King
David said, "I place G-d before me constantly
(Tehillim 16:8)," this will cause the image
of his soul to be embedded above and the Creator,
blessed be He, will show love for him. . ."
(Reishit Chokhma -- Ahava 1, echoed in Hanhagat
Hatzaddikim - R. Moshe Teitlebaum, Chida,
Chozeh of Lublin)
Sadness
"Positive use of imagery is very important
for controlling one's feelings. (See Daas
Chochmah Umussar, vol. 1, p. 131) A person
with a tendency towards sadness is likely
to habitually imagine unpleasant scenes. When
you find yourself visualizing negative scenes,
make a conscious effort to imagine a positive
one. . ." (Gateway to Happiness, R. Zelig
Pliskin, p. 181)
Anger
"When you fear a confrontation in which you
might become angry, mentally picture yourself
handling it calmly and self-confidently. Keep
repeating this picture in your mind until
you feel fairly certain that you will be able
to remain calm in the actual situation. .
." (Gateway to Happiness, p. 201)
We
hope these are helpful.
