
In every single encounter, we have a choice: an attitude of goodwill, or an attitude of confrontation. Even if we need to make a point, we can still do it with goodwill, or confrontationally.
There are sharp mental and physiological differences between goodwill and ill-will. Here are a few:
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Goodwill reduces cortisol, a hormone which can cause sleep disturbances, high blood pressure, and other health problems
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Cognitively, goodwill facilitates better decisions, which in turn avoid risk and accidents
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There is some evidence that goodwill can speed the healing process
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There is also evidence that goodwill enhances general cardiovascular health
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sleep better
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improve your cardiovascular system
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make better decisions, and suffer fewer accidents
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heal faster when you are ill or injured
A MEDITATION
Today, I will see if I can maintain a positive attitude towards everyone I meet.
I’ll wish happiness for them. Even if I don’t have an opportunity to talk with them and influence them, I can look upon them with love.
When I harbour a grudge against someone else, I notice my body hormones changing. I tense up, and my inner peace is disturbed. Why would I wish to do that?
If I can love even my enemies, then I have an opportunity to make myself more healthy, and to spread a more healthy atmosphere everywhere I go.