The Nature and Sources of Power

Understanding that power is universal and can be achieved both externally and internally is a crucial step. We must not only acknowledge but also actively develop our sources of power. This is the key to achieving lasting success and fulfillment. However, it's equally important to use our powers responsibly and wisely. Power can be temporary or permanent, inherent or acquired, and can either make or break us.

Our recent discussion on the sources of human power was enlightening. We discovered that as human beings, we often overlook the inherent powers within us. This inner power, when recognized and enhanced, can be a unique and valuable source of power, leading to lasting success. We call it Inner Power, and it's a force to be reckoned with.

On the contrary, human power is never permanent; hence, it could be a temporary possession. For instance, Political power is always temporary if an elected official has sworn to serve for a specified term. A person may be in the highest possible rank or position, but the time will come for his power to end. However, there may be some exceptions when a leader, for instance, is too greedy for power and has been practicing dictatorial leadership for a few decades. Just like the fate of the former Libyan President, no matter how long you are in a particular position or whether you are powerful enough to conquer everything, power will lose its value if it is misused.

The power of Position is a significant power source, but it's only genuinely beneficial when used for the common good, not just for self-interest. If you hold a particular position, consider the size of your responsibility and the term of your office. Some people are drawn to positions of power for the control and influence they offer. But the most influential people use their power for the greater good.

Recently, Forbes magazine published its annual list of the world's most influential people for 2011. Among the list comes President Obama - the US President being on the top. He has great political power and global influence, leading the world's most powerful economy. Bill Gates, Microsoft's founder and Chairman, is in the 5th rank. He is now known to be the most outstanding living philanthropist who co-founded the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The couple donated billions of dollars to other foundations and supported the funding of global health issues. Pope Benedict - the head of the Roman Catholic Church, is in the 7th rank. The Pope has been influential regarding the morality and spirituality of their followers. Surprisingly, the founder of the most popular social network, Facebook, is the youngest on the list and comes in the top 9. Mark Zuckerberg changed the way people communicate. His ultimate goal is to connect the world through the power of social media, which he co-founded in 2004 in a Harvard dormitory. Having more than 700 million members worldwide, Facebook has attained a certain degree of success and influence that changed global communication. Zuckerberg uses the power of media and has gained fame and prestige globally. Oprah is also one of the most respected and successful media personalities today. She has gained fortune through her media power, which she also uses for philanthropic work, which is why she is so magnetic and loved by her followers.

Another source of power is your lineage. Do you belong to a powerful clan? Do you carry a family name that is well known because of its societal influence? Then, you have got the power of lineage. For instance, the royal family is very well-known and adored by the people, and they possess power through the inheritance of the throne. At the same time, those in a political dynasty are so powerful that nobody can defeat them in the position.

Physical power is also one of the most important things. It is about your ability to execute your valuable ideas. We will have more achievements if we have the energy to do great things. However, no matter how brilliant and rich a person may be, if he is not in good health, he may not be able to achieve lasting fulfillment. Take the case of Steve Jobs as an example. When Steve was living, he was among the top global and respected leaders and one of the most influential people, but his money did not save his life. He became physically weak and gave up his position since he could not do the expected responsibility. The lesson is that we should never take our health for granted: the source of physical power. We do not have to be weak because we have a lot of potential to achieve something in life. The saying, "health is wealth," is true and powerful.

How we deal with or communicate with people is another power source. The power of social intelligence is an advantage to those who have learned and mastered the art of personal magnetism. People are charismatic and magnetic because of their personalities and ability to deal with people effectively. They have made a lot of admirers and followers and gained respect and loyalty.

Financial power is another thing that most people aspire to. Money is indeed an essential tool for survival, and it is precious. One common thing about the most influential people is their financial power. They can give away their money to those who need it. Bill Gates and his friend Warren Buffet tried to encourage their fellow billionaires to share their massive wealth with the less fortunate. They are good examples of leaders who use financial power to make a difference.

Do you have any of the sources of power mentioned? If none, then do not underestimate the power of your expertise and education. Your knowledge and wisdom are so powerful that they can lead to the sources of energy mentioned earlier and can be interrelated with other authorities. For instance, Knowledge Professionals and experts in their field have gained social intelligence through constant communication with people. They got the media's attention and later advertised their expertise to the people. And lastly, they have achieved the power of position and have made a fortune.

Power is universal and can be achieved externally or internally. For us to achieve lasting success and fulfillment, we must be able to acknowledge and develop our sources of energy. However, we must be responsible for our powers and use them wisely. Power can be temporary or permanent, inherent or acquired, and can either make or break us. We must remember that we are powerful in our own way only if we know ourselves better. As the saying goes, "Great power comes with great responsibility."


© 2011 Del Cusay

The Power of Meditation

Together with the yogis in New Delhi, India

Meditation is an ancient spiritual tool used by Yogis and Sages, mainly in the Himalayan Region. This practice has been preserved and passed down through generations.

Many studies and research have been done to prove its healing effects on the body and mind. Indeed, it's a beautiful life tool for everyone who wants relaxation and calmness of the body, mind, and spirit.

My journey as a meditation practitioner has been transformative. It has instilled a sense of calm in me, allowing me to navigate difficult situations with ease. The improvement in my memory and focus has been remarkable, making me more aware of my work and surroundings.

Meditation has helped to correct my breathing pattern since I am a shallow and fast breather. Still, I've learned that deep and regular breathing habits are essential for physical, emotional, and mental health.

Meditation is a tool for spirituality, and it's true because the Divine Beings are present in moments of silence, especially when you are ready to have a quiet moment and able to listen to inner voices.

Meditation uses particular locations, body positions, and hand seals, which have significant meanings. To be able to concentrate well during meditation, you must be in a place that is free from noise and distraction. It is also appropriate to be in an open space or well-ventilated room. The back must be aligned and straight, and the legs should be placed in a lotus or semi-lotus position, or you may sit straight on a chair to make it more practical. Hands are placed on the lap with hands facing upward. Hand seals must be used because they are a core essence of meditation and a tool for spirituality. Joining your index finger and thumb together symbolizes spiritual power, while joining the thumb and the middle finger together would mean material energy or power. Joining the thumb, index, and middle finger together would be the best practice as it is more balanced--the material and spiritual power combined.

I meditate whenever I feel stressed, fatigued, and bored, and I've proven it very effective in regaining vitality. It makes me feel more relaxed and has peace of mind. Meditation has become an indispensable tool for me, and I consider it valuable for physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health and well-being.

Initially, meditation was a practice that relied on imagination and visualization. However, for those with busy schedules, the advent of voice-guided reflections has made this ancient practice more accessible and practical.

Some meditation DVDs and books are on the market today. They can also be purchased through an online store and are available on some popular video-sharing websites. However, carefully choose which meditation products to buy and consider the author's expertise and reputation.

I'm fortunate to have been taught by an absolute master of meditation. He spent some of his beautiful moments in the Himalayas and was mentored by great masters. He has a deeper understanding of meditation practices and their hidden dangers. The knowledge and wisdom I've gained from him are beneficial in my practice and teaching others through seminars on special meditation programs he designed and created.

If you've witnessed the transformative power of meditation in your life, I urge you to give it a try. Open your mind to its potential to change your perspective and ideals.


© 2011 Del Cusay