Cultures are born from the depths of belief. Some take root in the sacred, like the Native American belief that the Earth is the source of all life, a gift from the Maker. Others grow from the ideals that shape societies, such as justice and freedom being the heart of democratic nations. Each culture is a living testament to the truths its people hold dear.
When I began to shape the world of Kailmeyra, a world untouched by evil, I considered how such a society could genuinely exist. If we believe that evil is born from hatred, it becomes clear that the Alfar would need a counterbalance—the force of love. But I felt the need to expand that notion–to encompass not just love but all the positive emotions and intentions that can light the human spirit. In this world, it was those forces that would guide and define them.
For years, scientists have explored the power of positive thoughts—this much is well-known. But how often do we stop to consider the true strength of intent? Intent, after all, is something far more profound. It is the state of mind that channels one’s actions toward a specific purpose, a force that drives a person toward their chosen path with unwavering focus. Embedded within the heart of intent is conviction.
Consider, for a moment, two men who volunteer to work on a Habitat for Humanity house. One signs up because he’s required to complete community service hours; the other, born into a life of poverty and, as a child, never knew the comfort of sleeping in his own bed. Both men arrive at the same time, both carry out the same tasks. But which one will push beyond the bare minimum? Which one will ensure that each nail is driven with precision, the paint hasn’t dripped on the new carpet, and the baseboards are properly installed? The difference lies not in the skills they bring to the job, but in the intent that drives them.
And that, my friends, is the powerful thing.
One Comment on “Understanding the Power of Intent”
Interesting thoughts and an excellent example. Then to take it to the next level, how do situations and the filter of perceptions influence and change (or warp) intent. In your example, the man who is there from obligation may view his co-worker as a show off, trying to impress everyone with his “good job”. Would he develop a hatred for every hour he had to spend on the project and then to “show them” sabotage the work with a series of accidents.
Or conversely, would being around the guy who came from such poverty as he arrived every day with a genuine willingness to do something for others rub off and change the man with obligation’s intent for the positive, simply from knowing someone he would never have met otherwise?
What about the man who is driven to help those who walk in the shoes he once did? The intent drives him to do his best, but what effect does the follow through have on his intent. Does his passion to help grow or wane? Does building a house for a few give him a sense of satisfaction or does he develop a sense of futility because while what he is doing will impact a fortunate few, there are many others who will remain on the street?