Thought experiments meet their utility in action.

We can think all day long, philosophize until our head hurts, but until those thoughts translate into action, they remain in an unactualized space. The realms of reality require action; thoughts are fruitless until they bud into action.

I am not suggesting we toss philosophy or stop thinking. Instead, I invite us to consider how our thinking can translate into action, however small that might be.

If I am part of a spiritual practice or community and learn that an important tenet is kindness to animals, for instance, entertaining that notion and feeling a sentiment of kindness for animals is only the start. That principle is mute, inept, and impotent until it reaches an action. Perhaps the action is small—taking a spider outside the house instead of killing it, or choosing a vegetarian meal instead of a meat dish. The thought can precipitate these actions and eventually become integrated into us. Once the actions are habitualized, the thought seed has met its full fruition and is no longer a separate entity but part of us.

Do not let your thoughts be an end in themselves. Can they lead you somewhere? Can they better your life or the lives of others? Are they solving problems or just spinning wheels?

Awareness of our thoughts helps us identify which ones to keep, which ones to toss, which ones to cultivate, and which ones to let wither.

Choose your thoughts wisely, to the extent you're able. And let the worthy ones reach the surface and sprout.