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From:  "DIANE M. CLARK (MUSIC DEPARTMENT)" <DCLARK@r...>
Date:  Sun Apr 16, 2000  7:20 pm
Subject:  Re: [vocalist-temporary] Question about affirmations


Judy wrote:

>>I am convinced that affirmations ought to work, but when I try to use them, I
find that they usually backfire on me; that is, it's like there is another voice
inside that says, "Oh, come off it! Who are you trying to kid?" This is the
whole paradox of trying to make yourself believe something that you don't
believe yet. So I try to get around it by taking smaller steps. Instead of
saying: "I have a marvelous voice", I start with: "I have a basically good voice
and I am capable of improving it". From there to "My voice is improving" is
already a biggish step for me. I would be interested in hearing what some of
you experienced affirmationists think of that.

+++

Yes, there are almost always conflicting voices inside of us, arguing about
things! Affirmations can give strength to the voice you want to emerge vic-
torious. What you said above shows exactly why each individual needs to
design his/her own affirmations -- so that you will find something to say that
you are comfortable with. I would not be comfortable saying "I am the best
singer in the world" -- but I can be comfortable with "I am a wonderful singer,
and people love to hear me sing." (There have been plenty of times when those
inner voices have urged me to doubt that statement!) "I enjoy exercise and
find time for it every day" gets me a lot further than "I adore exercise and
am in tip-top shape"! :) We all have our individual challenges, and we also
have wisdom to address them. Sometimes that wisdom involves getting outside
help, which can be very important.

I know just what you mean about teaching the children and building their con-
fidence. I teach an adult student thru the Memphis Literacy Council. I spend
some time teaching her reading skills (the easy part, as she's very smart),
and lots more time building her confidence. Actually, I do about the same
with my smart, privileged college students, too! I think it's the nature of
teaching! :)

|\ Dr. Diane M. Clark, Assoc. Prof./Chair of Music Dept., Rhodes College
| 2000 N. Parkway, Memphis, TN 38112, 901-843-3782, dclark@r...
() http://gray.music.rhodes.edu/musichtmls/faculty/dclark.html

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