The Mantra Of The Secret

(CBS)  This column was written by CBS News Early Show co-anchor Harry Smith.

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It's No. 1 on The New York Times best-seller list, and most of the book's phenomenal sales have occurred in the last few weeks. If you don't want to read the book, get the DVD.

We are, of course, talking about "The Secret," a New Age version of an old message: To succeed, you need to see yourself succeeding.

Here is the mantra: Ask. Believe. Receive.

This kind of stuff has been floating around for more than 100 years. It was widely popular in the 1950s with Norman Vincent Peale's "The Power of Positive Thinking."

"The Secret" mixes in the notion of the laws of attraction. I'm not really sure how it works, but I think it's something like this: If I really want a new BMW, it's going to want me back.

The danger in all of this, say critics, is that people with real problems might not get them solved simply by believing they'll go away. Good point.

However, I will keep my eyes open for BMWs following me down the street.

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Harry's daily commentary can be heard on many CBS Radio News affiliates across the country.
By Harry Smith

[machebeuf]

Long before I read the Secret, I have believed in the law of attraction was understood through my religious faith, family and community. After practicing this understanding, it does WORK, both good and bad. This is nothing new but Ms. Byrne put this age old message in a way that resonates with the majority of people. I am so amazed at the "attacks" on this book and message! Actually, I am saddened by them. As stated in your show, we are a country of fear and depression and little hope, unfortunately inspired by our horrific leaders. But this tells people there is more and it is within your control. As usual, Oprah is leading the front by putting it out there and who better to explain her life as being lived by this age old law of attraction. The attacks say so much about the fear in America.