Over this past week it’s been a challenge to not be affected by the state of world affairs. It’s a delicate balance we keep between being citizens of the world and masters of our daily lives. There was little good news this past week; and it was easy to be dragged under by concerns over global warming and ever-increasing random and severe extremist violence.
My mom self worries about what kind of planet my sons will inherit? What will be left of it? How do I talk with them about the very real circumstances that have led to humankind making decisions that are irreversibly damaging the planet. That foreign governments no longer see the US as the leader of the free world and are taking steps to advance their agendas and destabilize peace globally. In my lifetime, I’ve not been this worried or concerned about civilization.
Of course everyone has an opinion, of which they are rightly entitled, our country was built on free speech and tolerance, but has drifted very far from respectful debate, honesty, and just basic good judgement. It doesn’t make sense. With all the advances in technology and science and what we know about human psychology why are we in free fall? And why are we so angry?
I have no answers. All I know is how to do is to be me. The me that believes in protecting mother nature, in equality for all, and in remaining grateful for what I have while I have it. There is nothing in this world that is permanent.
I’m trying to learn to modify my reactions by modifying my thoughts. It is difficult, but it can help us to see and experience unpleasant situations, and allow us to stop reacting unconsciously, which for me means becoming hopeless or fearful. If there is anyway to make sense of what’s happening and retain some ability to influence your little corner of the world to the positive, awareness is key. We can’t avoid world news or politics, even if we ignore it it’s still happening. What we can do is manage our reactions to the things that cause us the most stress, and try to turn that negative into something productive. For me, it’s the Gandhi effect – “be the change you want to see in the world”. Get active in your community, and know that you can make a difference.