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We Need an Outbreak!

By Allie Alberigo

Normally the word “outbreak” brings on fear of diseases or viruses and causes panic.  In this article, “outbreak” means many things, both negative and positive.  In class, a virus outbreak could prove to be a negative force: on the other hand, an outbreak of energy, sincerity, humility and discipline could be life changing.  We need this latter kind of outbreak in our lives more often.

One negative person in your immediate circle can cause you to become negative. Words that are spoken, actions that are taken, and emotions that are voiced are easily adopted. So we need to be very careful not to allow a negative outbreak in our lives.  It is easy to sit back, listen to the news, and hear about the negative occurrences going on right around us.  It is very difficult to resist being affected by this input, to make the conscious decision to walk away when you are bombarded by this kind of negativity.  The mind is easily affected you need to take the necessary precautions so you can decide whether to be a part of the cotangent or not.  Just as in medicine, a placebo may either protect you from a sickness or not, depending on your belief system and the power of the mind.

Have you ever felt a cold coming on, and allowed yourself to fall ill by accepting the fact that you will get sick?  Other times you may tell yourself you are not going to get sick and then you don’t.  It’s the same with negative emotions and energy, and on the flip side, positive thoughts.

What is nature of the energy in the class, in your workout, or in your home? Can you be the catalyst to make a positive change? Can you create the environment to make it happen?  The answer is “Of course you can!”  You can either be positive or not, it is entirely your choice.  When working out at your school, all you need to do is tell yourself you are going to make this the best workout you ever had, and pass the positive energy on to others.  A simple loud Kiai (spirit shout) or an extra strong respectful “yes sir” can be very contagious.  Your emotions will bring on positive emotions in others, and before you know it the classroom, workplace, or home life will be changed.  You are what you believe, either negative or positive, so choose to make every day a positive.  Envision the positive energy and it will manifest right before your eyes.