Ask Dr Pam...

Dear Readers,

The Wizard of Oz is a classic. I enjoyed it as a child, and as an adult, I am delighted to watch it with my children; especially, during the holiday times.

The acting, imagery, choreography and cinematography are epic.

Of interest, is Dorothy's commission to "follow the yellow brick road," in order to find her way.

A strict adherence to this path, promises to bring her into the destiny that she fervently seeks.

However, she would encounter many challenges before she reaches the rainbow at the end of her journey.

In Bahamian culture, we often hear people speak of "their first mind."

This phrase refers to believing and obeying the first thought that comes to mind, when making a decision.

This probably has much to do with the fact that the first thought is fresh and perhaps recalls immediate information that is stored into short and long time memory.

This thought is usually unbiased and has been scientifically proven to be accurate.

This is the reason why students are dissuaded from changing their first responses when answering objective type questions (circle a. b. c. or d), especially when they are uncertain of the correct answer.

Some people refer to this phenomenon as having a conscience, but I choose to believe that "He" is the Holy Spirit within us, quickening us to make the correct moves, to follow the yellow brick road that God has placed before us.

Everyone has a destiny to fulfill and a plan for his life. The development of this plan is attributed to early experiences in our lives, lessons, teachings and choice.

What makes this journey intriguing is the fact that so much that lies before us is unknown.

Dorothy met a scarecrow who did not have a brain, a tin man without a heart, and a lion who needed courage.

She was able to convince them to join her, with the assurance that the brick road was the right direction.

They were uncertain about the future but were comforted that the prize was at the end.

There are so many nuggets that we can take from Dorothy and implement into our lives.

Firstly, there was the ability to believe that a path existed and she had the fortitude to earnestly pursue it.

Dorothy was obedient. Secondly, she possessed the determination to view encounters and challenges with an optimistic passion.

Thirdly, she was determined to stay on the path and refused to be permanently distracted. Her attitude was cheerful and positive.

Fourthly, she overcame every doubt and fear, enabling her to slay major giants along the way.

Eventually, Dorothy reached The "Wizard" of Oz, but soon discovered that he was unable to help her.

This did not deter her, but allowed her to see that everything she went looking for was already inside of her; that the journey was designed to test her faith.

Upon completing her task she received the prize; a trip home.

In this New Year, as you listen to that "first mind" inside of you, believe in God, believe in your potentials, find and follow your Yellow Brick Road.

Dr. Pam

POINT TO PONDER: Find your passion, follow your dreams.

Your letters and comments are encouraged. You may email your letters or comments to askdoctorpam@yahoo.com, or write to Askdoctorpam P.O. Box F43736. Dr. Pam is a Clinical Psychologist trained in all areas of mental health.