Have you ever heard the Yiddish phrase “Tracht gut vet zein gut”—“Think good, and it will be good”? It’s more than just a catchy line. These words, rooted in ancient Jewish wisdom, encapsulate a profound truth about the power of our thoughts.
At first glance, this phrase might seem like a simple encouragement to stay positive or “hope for the best.” But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find it offers much more—a categorical guarantee that our thinking can shape reality.
How is this possible? Let’s explore the depth behind these words.
Our reality operates on three interconnected dimensions: our thoughts, our words, and our actions. While the effects of what we say and do are evident, we often underestimate the transformative power of our thinking.
Consider the tragic history of Tisha B’Av (the Ninth of Av)–a day which commemorates some of the saddest events in Jewish history. This day, which began with the Israelites’ misplaced despair upon hearing the spies’ negative report about the Promised Land, has seen centuries of calamities, from the destruction of the Temples to expulsions and massacres.
Was this a divine punishment, or something deeper?
Jewish tradition suggests that the Israelites’ negative mindset infused Tisha B’Av with a “negative energy” that perpetuated itself through history. Conversely, the joy of Purim radiates positivity throughout the Hebrew month of Adar, influencing even unrelated events.
The lesson is clear: Our thoughts don’t just shape our personal experiences; they ripple outward, impacting time, events, and the people around us.
Jewish tradition teaches, “Joy breaks through barriers.” This isn’t mere rhetoric; it’s a strategy for life.
This principle extends even beyond religion. History offers countless examples of how a positive mindset can lead to resilience and triumph. Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and psychologist, survived unimaginable horrors by envisioning a future where he would share his experiences and insights with others. His thoughts gave him the strength to endure.
Jewish tradition doesn’t shy away from acknowledging pain. When faced with tragedy, they say, “Blessed is the True Judge.” Yet, they also believe that every challenge carries an opportunity for growth.
By choosing a positive response—even in adversity—we align ourselves with divine benevolence. As the Prophet Jeremiah said, “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, And whose trust the LORD is” (JPS 1917, Jeremiah 17:7). This trust invites divine kindness into our lives, often in unexpected ways.
There’s a powerful story about a grandfather who told his grandson, “I feel as though I have two wolves fighting in my heart. One is filled with anger, despair, and negativity, while the other is full of compassion, hope, and strength.”
When the boy asked which wolf would win, the grandfather replied, “The one I feed.”
The choice is ours. We can dwell in fear and negativity, or we can nurture hope and positivity. As Jewish wisdom teaches, “Tracht gut vet zein gut.” When we think good, we not only transform our own lives but also influence the world around us for the better.
So, what will you feed today?
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