What is "cogental©" communication?

Always be willing to give credit to ideas that can be attributed to another. I heard a sermon which included a profound and probing question. I do not recall the pastor mentioning the author, but perhaps because I was so deeply moved, I likely just missed it. The question comes from Andy Stanley's (son of Internationally known, Charles Stanley) book, The Best Question Ever ...

In light of your past experiences, your present circumstances, and your future hopes and dreams, what is the wise thing for you to do?

Wants and Needs

In light of our future hopes and dreams ... have you wondered why you want something? Our desires, which can best be described as cravings and longings, arise out of past experiences. Since you have never experienced "the future" (unless you are Marty McFly), every moment preceding the current moment (present) has created remnants of memories, accumulations of responses, physiological patterns and a microbial footprint. This massive accumulation impacts your present state and desires for future experiences. For example, after meeting someone - you find yourself thinking about them, wanting and hoping to interact with them again. It's typical, short of obsessing, that imagine how the encounter might start - progress - and conclude. The cognitive rehearsal in the present moment directs you to pursuing a future reality.

Taking Action

What is the best thing for me to do? Successful, happy and thriving people share one common behavioral pattern. They all act with intention. Choose to plan, choose to think about pleasant memories, and choose to make a difference in the world. When you fail to plan, you plan to fail. This idiom is true in every aspect of your life. You can go through haphazardly making choices, and frequently fall prey to those around you who want to hurt, manipulate or otherwise use you. OR, you find a time each day to imagine how you want YOUR life to be.