By Jerry Riley

People always ask how my columns originate. Well, this one had come to mind several times but got its start when I realized most people do not see themselves as other people see them. Some don’t see their assets as others do. Most see themselves as better than what other people see them, while sometimes overlooking their real assets. Either way, it is difficult to convince people of their worth.

Greg Brady of The Brady Bunch said that you have to be careful what you say about people, because it might hurt their feelings. It could also help create a false impression of themselves. In fact the show built one entire episode on that premise.

If they see themselves in a dim light, they can actually become convinced that they are not going to amount to much, even if they do have the ability (Yes, what a revoltin’ development this is!). On the other hand, with a positive self image anyone can set themselves on the road to improvement.

If someone convinces themselves something is impossible, they have no reason to keep trying and failure will travel faster than success.

In another episode of The Brady Bunch, Mike reminds us that we are what we think we are; in other words, your perception is your reality.

I can use myself as an example of a self-fulfilling prophecy. My legal name is Jerald, with a J. I was told the common spelling uses a G. I guess my parents knew I was special — well, or, just different. Either way I have to respect their wishes, fulfill their prophecy!

Jerry Riley comments for the News Bulletin. He is a retired telecommunications supervisor.