Dear Louise,

I’ve been told that I may have cancer of the esophagus. I’m so surprised, especially since I never even get sore throats or colds. What can this mean?

T.N., Santa Barbara, CA

Dear T.N.,

If “they” are saying that you may have cancer of the esophagus, I’d definitely get a second and even a third opinion. Second, I’d go to a good nutritionist and have a major diet overhaul. This may only be a warning sign for you to make changes in your life. Pick up a copy of Healthy Healing by Dr. Linda Page and read her section on this dis-ease.

On the mental level, conditions in the area of the esophagus can mean a deeply held conflict about whether and what to take in, in the way of nutrients. The person may feel a deep distrust to all that the Universe can provide them. Affirmations to use: My body is always working toward optimum health. My body wants to be whole and healthy. I listen with love to my body’s messages.

Dear Louise,

I’m a Westerner living in China doing as much as I can to assist the people around me and help the country to grow. Can you please give me your thoughts on herpes? STDs are really a problem. Thank you for your insight.

A.C., Guangzhou, China

Dear A.C.,

Sexually transmitted dis-eases (STDs) are a problem everywhere – China, as you know, is no exception. I commend the work you’re doing, as it’s certainly not an easy task. Not only are you dealing with dis-ease, you’re also dealing with a totally different culture. Herpes attacks the body when the immunity is low; poor diet is also a risk factor. People who attract herpes often have a massive belief in sexual guilt and the need for punishment. They’re full of public shame and they’re convinced that God’s going to punish them for being who they are. They’re usually intensely rejecting of their genitals and of themselves.

How you’ll translate this into their culture is up to you. Ask the Universe for guidance and to bring you someone there you can discuss this with. Affirm: All the information I need for my work is easily brought to me. I am solution oriented.

Dear Louise,

I’ve read a number of your books and I love them. How can I stop thinking of others and start changing how I think of myself? I have all the answers for others and I know what I need to do, but I can’t get out of my own way.

C.S., Boston, MA

Dear C.S.,

Why are you not worth saving? What have you done that’s so terrible that convinces you you’re not lovable? If you answer these questions, you’ll discover that there’s really nothing wrong with you – you’ve just been operating under a false premise all these years. You absolutely must take the leap of faith and accept that you’re lovable and are willing to fall in love with yourself. If you don’t, you’ll leave the planet one day still believing that you’re “not good enough.”

OK now, get off this negative spiral and get yourself to a mirror. Don’t look for flaws. Begin, instead, to say: “I love you. I really, really love you.” And stick with it. Say that each time you pass a mirror and every time a negative thought comes up. I know you can do this. And you can do it now. I believe in you.

Louise L. Hay is a metaphysical teacher and the best-selling author of numerous books, including You Can Heal Your Life, Empowering Women and You Can Do It®. For a free catalog of books, audios, videos and other products by Louise Hay and other Hay House authors, please call (800) 654-5126. If you would like Louise to answer your letter in this publication, please write “Dear Louise Column,” c/o Hay House, Inc., P.O. Box 5100, Carlsbad, CA 92018-5100, website: www.hayhouse.com.