We find it hard to have faith in abundance, because we haven’t made it happen ourselves. If we know how to drive a car, it’s easy to believe that someone else can drive a car. But we don’t know how to create pure abundance in our lives, so it’s hard to believe that it can happen.

But that belief is fundamental to our ability to know that abundance. We must let go of philosophy that we can only prosper by taking away from someone else, or that our prosperity means someone else’s deprivation. The first brings us avarice; second, guilt. And dwelling on avarice or guilt won’t bring success—it will bring more avarice or more guilt! Only dwelling on abundance will bring it to reality in our own lives.

A WORD ABOUT SYSTEMIC DUCK FEEDERS: Some organizations and groups encourage anonymous feedback, in mistaken belief that this provides a safe environment for honest communication. WRONG! Anonymous feedback promotes dysfunctional systems . . . and dysfunctional systems are essentially "duck food silos." (I put a spin on an old mantra, "If you can't say it to his/her face, don't say it at all." Of course, sometimes we need help -- a mentor, an advocate, a companion, a safe structure. But whatever it takes, in healthy systems, constructive, behavior-focused criticism comes with a name attached, and if at all possible, is given face-to- face.)

Finally: HOW NOT TO BE A DUCK: Before YOU criticize, think clearly. Figure out what is really bugging you. And then speak directly to person with whom you have a problem. Use 'I' statements (a skill unknown to ducks, as far as I know). Rehearse ahead of time to be sure you're focused on behavior (Do-ing), not Be-ing. A good rule is to ask yourself, "How would this sound if she (or he) were talking to ME?"

© Maureen Killoran, 2005