A simple thought

I have often wondered what is the origin of a thought. Where do they come from and where do they go? Once a thought originates, it can lead to certain emotions or vice versa. For example I am happy today (emotions), and this can lead to thoughts in my mind (specific or random). Conversely, I am thinking about my kids or a recent vacation (thoughts) and this can lead me to be happy or worried or tense (emotions). So, emotions and thoughts are interlinked. Now, together, thoughts and emotions are linked to the brain. Why?? Well, a thought/ emotion can force the brain to generate signals in the body that result in the body taking certain actions. For example, I get a thought that it is a nice warm day and the golden gate would be a sight to see. I feel anticipation or curiosity or some sort of emotion. The combination forces the brain to send a signal to the body, that ok lets go visit SFO today. The body takes ACTION and I go see the golden gate.

Do you see how powerful thoughts are? A simple thought can cause us to start doing things. Similarly, an action can lead to thoughts. For example, I am driving my car (action) and a thought strikes me that maybe next time I should take the train. or, I go for a walk (action) and a thought comes to my mind that "this is fun and I should do it more often". Therefore, Actions can lead to thoughts as well.

So, it follows from above, that thoughts, emotions and actions are all inter-linked. But the question still remains, where do thoughts originate from? Who is causing them to come in our mind or making them leave? Why do we remember some thoughts even after a long time and why do we not remember other thoughts no matter how hard we try? What causes thoughts/actions/events to become a memory, permanently imbedded in our brain while others are lost, which we cannot recall even after a few hours or days. For example, I recall events from my childhood even now but If someone were to ask me what I had for lunch last monday, I would not be able to tell them.

This is something to ponder on - thoughts. This will eventually lead us to discuss another important aspect of self realization - thoughtless state of mind!!! Till then, think about thoughts once in a while.