It is my contention that in order to understand how the universe works, you must first understand energy. Energy is, according to Webster, simple natural power vigorously exerted. Every item in the universe is comprised of energy – of positive and negative charges in constant motion. Our “spirit” is comprised of energy as well, and our physical body is the “life support” system for the energy of this spirit. In order to realize our own spiritual power, we must look at how we exchange energy every day with all that surrounds us on this planet.

If you can accept that everything in reality is comprised of energy, then imagine the universe’s energy as if it were a giant mirror reflecting back whatever you project out to it. This energy is non-judgmental and only echoes back what you release into the universe.

For example, if you say, “I NEED to stop feeling so sad and lonely”, the use of the word NEED is reflected back to you and you continue to NEED to stop feeling that way. In other words, the universe simply confirms your original thought and returns it back to you, thus perpetuating your needy feelings.

It is a very simple concept that has been heard through the ages – what we resist, persists. In resistance, we give energy to a thought or feeling, and the universe has no choice but to reflect it back to us. We are actually blocking the flow of the universe’s energy and stopping it from being released.

In order to create our true desires and “be not afraid of the universe”, as the Eskimo teachings state, we must examine the language we use to communicate our thoughts. For example, releasing kind and gentle thoughts will only bring more kindness and gentleness to our lives. This concept is clearly illustrated by the adage, “we reap what we sow.”

When we can see and appreciate the positive aspects of our lives (despite our sadness over our loss), then we set the universe in motion to send positive opportunities into our lives.

Thank you to Melinda Vail for her contribution to this posting. Melinda and Ellen are co-authors of The Other Side of the Vail: Spiritual Guidance for Everyday Living.

Ellen Gerst, a Life Coach who specializes in grief and relationships, is the author of A Practical Guide to Widow/erhood. Born out of Ellen’s own experiences as a young widow, A Practical Guide provides "how-to" information to help a griever re-adjust each aspect of his/her life without his/her loved one. Her newest book, 101 Tips and Thoughts on Coping with Grief, is an easy-to-read reference guide filled with suggestions for every day use on moving forward through the grief journey. Ellen has also written Love After Loss: Writing The Rest of Your Story, a step-by-step guide on how to redesign your life to include a new love connection after the loss of a mate. For more detailed information on products and services, visit her website.