Most people think the source of their suffering is someone or something out there in the world-the behaviour of family or colleagues, or unfortunate events in life. But the true cause of suffering is from within.

Suffering is a result of the stories we tell ourselves.

The average person tells themselves nine times as many negative stories as positive stories, and thinks nine times as many negative thoughts as positive thoughts. Research also tells us that the human body does not distinguish between a "real" event and an imagined one. Therefore, when we tell ourselves negative stories or think negative thoughts, our bodies respond as if these are real. As a result, medical researchers have discovered that many of us think ourselves sick.

We need to be more aware of the kinds of stories we tell ourselves, and to be more disciplined in monitoring the thoughts we imagine or expose ourselves to. When confronted with life's challenges, it's important for us to consider possibilities and develop appropriate responses. However, if we become immersed in our negative imaginings, we'll suffer greatly because of them.

To create a climate of peace and joy at home and at work, let's use our imaginations constructively and creatively. Instead of imagining what you don't want, imagine the outcomes you'd like in your life.

Einstein stated, "Imagination is more important than knowledge." We can move from fear and anger to peace and joy simply by changing our stories.

HANS member Ted Kuntz is a psychotherapist, author of "Peace Begins With Me" (www.peacebeginswithme.ca), and spoke at a HANS-sponsored seminar on January 24, 2008. DVDs of Kuntz's talk are available for sale through HANS at 604-435-0512, and are offered as a free gift option with a HANS membership.

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