08/31/2026
Cardinal commentary from Mr. Ellerbe's perch:
My morning reading stated that our brains are inclined to a "negative biasā which is a survival mechanism focused on self-preservation that has us constantly searching for problems. If youāre a hunter, this brain-wiring is similar to that of a deer in a constant state of observation, looking and listening for threats whether real or imagined. Considering we have around 6,200 thoughts a day and with 80% being negative, a little math shows that nearly 5,000 of those are negative! These negative thoughts might be worries that never come to fruition, negative assumptions about others, feelings of isolation, an attitude of failure or continual expectations of worse case scenarios. This is not to say that some of our negative thoughts are not sound and appropriate, but constant negativity is not healthy! Because this trait developed naturally over time, it can only be assumed that undoing takes time. How do we change the way we think? Thatās a great question! Since negativity produces more negatively, positive thoughts are also contagious. Rather than focusing on the bad, make an effort to look for the good. Rather than focus on worse case scenarios, focus on the ideal outcome. Rather than focus on failure, focus on success. Rather than focusing on the limitations of others, focus on strengths and contributions. Rather than a focus on challenges, focus on the opportunity. Rather than focus on what we donāt have, focus on what we do. Letās think about our thinking today and see how we might reframe our thinking to look for and emphasize what is true, good and uplifting!
Birds of a feather flock together! Go Cardinals!