Hardwiring Ourselves

Our brains are fabulous creations, more adaptable and programmable than we have even imagined. What an amazing God we have! I was just reading about a disease, hydrocephalus. It causes the brain to get flooded with fluid which replaces the white matter and can result in severe brain damage. Apparently, some people who have large portions of their brain missing, due to the damage caused, may go on to lead perfectly normal lives, some as much as 95% brainless (so to speak). Perhaps, depending upon their own intent, motivation and expectations, the remainder of the brain hardwires itself to take up the slack, compensating for damaged areas. This is one theory advanced to explain the phenomenon.

My reading in Joshua 17:16 this morning started the train of thought. Israelites from the tribe of Joseph are complaining that they don't have enough land for their numbers and that "the Canaanites who live in the plain have iron chariots." Joshua is all OH BU HU - totally unconvinced. It seems that their heart attitudes and lack of courage are what stand in the way of victory. He tells them, "Though the Canaanites have iron chariots and though they are strong, you can drive them out." Just go do it. Change your thinking in other words.

A man we know (on mental disability income) was talking to my husband about a recent visit to his psychiatrist. The doctor gave him a puzzle test, which, according to him, showed a decline in ability. This suggests that possibly, conversely to the above research, if the reward (State monies, benefits, etc.) is for poor brain function, then the brain hardwires itself to that end. If you claim to be crazy long enough or think you need to be, then you will achieve what you speak forth.