Florence Scovel Shinn, a renowned metaphysical teacher and author, has left a profound legacy with her timeless works on the law of attraction and spiritual principles. One of her most intriguing and often overlooked teachings involves the metaphor of “digging ditches.” In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of Florence Scovel Shinn’s insights on this topic and how it can help us manifest our desires and lead a more fulfilling life.

The Metaphor of Digging Ditches:

In Florence Scovel Shinn’s book, “The Game of Life and How to Play It,” she uses the metaphor of “digging ditches” to illustrate a fundamental concept of manifesting our desires. In her own words, she says, “When you ‘dig a ditch’ or make a definite decision, God works with you.” But what does this metaphor really mean, and how can it be applied to our lives?

1. Making a Definite Decision:

Florence Scovel Shinn emphasizes the importance of making a “definite decision” when we set out to manifest our desires. This decision is like digging a ditch – it represents a clear commitment to achieving a specific goal. Whether it’s a career change, a loving relationship, financial abundance, or better health, a definite decision is the first step.

2. Faith and Persistence:

Shinn believes that when you make a definite decision, you must have faith that it will come to fruition. You should keep your focus on your goal, just as a person digging a ditch continues to work with determination. No matter how challenging the process may seem, faith and persistence are essential.

More importantly, if you prepare for what you want, it shows you EXPECT to get it.  Making a space for it or as they did in the Bible, dug the ditches when there was no sign of rain and it came.

Or let’s say you want an award.  You place a nail on the wall where it will eventually hang even if there are no signs by your outward senses it is coming true.

3. Co-Creation with the Universe:

According to Shinn, when you’ve dug your “ditch” of a definite decision, the universe or the divine forces align with your intention to assist you in achieving your goal. This co-creative process can bring about unexpected opportunities and events that support your journey.

4. Surrender and Detachment:

While working toward your goals, Shinn advises that you must maintain a sense of surrender and detachment. You have dug your ditch, made your decision, and put in the effort, but then, release your attachment to the outcome. Trust that the universe will provide in its own way and time.

5. Positive Affirmations:

Shinn also advocates the use of positive affirmations to reinforce your definite decision. By using affirmations, you can align your thoughts with your goals and maintain a positive mindset, which in turn attracts positive outcomes.

Applying Florence Scovel Shinn’s Teachings:

To apply Florence Scovel Shinn’s teachings on “digging ditches” for manifestation, consider the following steps:

1. Identify your desire and make a definite decision to achieve it.

2. Develop a strong sense of faith and persistence in your journey.

3. Stay open to signs, opportunities, and unexpected support that may come your way.

4. Let go of excessive attachment to the outcome, trusting in divine timing.

5. Utilize positive affirmations to maintain a positive mindset.

Florence Scovel Shinn’s metaphor of “digging ditches” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of making clear, decisive choices in manifesting our desires. By having faith, staying persistent, and allowing the universe to co-create with us, we can achieve our goals and live a more abundant and fulfilling life. Embrace Shinn’s wisdom, dig your ditches, and watch your dreams manifest before your eyes.

To learn more about Florence Scovel Schinn and her teachings, I recommend this book.

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