Consuming Information

It is interesting to ponder the thought that just a few decades ago the concept of having Too Much Information available would be one of the challenges facing each of us as we go about our daily lives.  Yet here we are today in the age of the Internet, smart phones, Twitter and texting - who would of thought?

Choice becomes ever more important in such an environment and sometimes what you don't choose is as important in what you do.  Additionally, discernment is becoming an ever more important skill to develop as our ability to separate the 'wheat from the chaff' ultimately determines what we decide to consume and digest in our daily 'diet' of Information.  We all know what happens when we enjoy more and more of our meals at the drive-up window of our favorite fast-food restaurant - the same applies with with what we consume intellectually.

When seeking Information, I suggest the following 3 fold approach (note: IVC):

Investigate:  As if you were a investigative reporter, pursue and 'stalk' your information as it if you were digging for the Truth at all times.  Be constantly on the look-out for new clues and hints of what is hidden beneath rather than accepting information at surface value.  Maintain an attitude of neutral to skeptical at all times until you have double confirmed your 'sources' of information.

Validate:  Once you have confirmed your 'sources', look to Validate your Truths.  Whether it be a Personal, World or Universal Truth, determine if Validation has occurred and if so, acknowledge and recognize it.  Seek to build upon Validated Truths, just as a strong house is built on a solid foundation.

Contemplate: Of utmost importance is the absorption of truly Validated information.  To often we 'gobble down' our food, not allowing ourselves to digest properly.  I prefer quiet time alone or a walk in nature for my contemplation but a good easy chair or even walking the dog may be your preference.  Creating the time and space for this contemplation is often the challenge but the rewards will surprise you.

The suggested exercise for today is to pick a space in your home for Contemplation and make it your own.  If you already have one then clear, clean and re-order to reset the grounding.  If you have none and space is at a 'premium' where you live then start small with a cushion, a little table or a small plant - just the act of doing this will start the 'digestive' juices flowing.  Who knows what you'll be 'hungry' for next? :)

All the Best,
Whitney

© 2010 All rights reserved, Whitney Merrill

'From wonder into wonder existence opens.' - Lao Tzu