Here we are at the midpoint of 2022, and the world continues to be very complex, unpredictable, and full of suffering. I want to share just a few thoughts that may help. These are mostly gleaned from people who are wiser than I am, who help me put our challenges in context.
First, from the late Congressman John Lewis, this familiar quote:
“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year. It is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.” (on Twitter, 6/27/2018)
When things seem overwhelming and we are angry, scared, confused, or hopeless, there are several very important antidotes.
First, come back to your body. Feel what you are feeling, both physically and emotionally. Ground yourself in what is here right now. Allow the rage, grief, and fear to be there without trying to suppress them, but also without attaching to them or creating stories of hopelessness or blame. Move your body in ways that feel comforting or energizing.
Second, bring kindness and curiosity to yourself and your situation. Know that you are a beautiful and precious part of the created world, and there is a great deal of goodness in the world in spite of the challenges. Know that anyone can make a difference and we have a responsibility to do what we can, but we can’t do it if we are exhausted. Rest, regroup, connect with loved ones, and then come back to whatever work is yours to do in the world.
Third, know that all of the challenges in the world right now are all part of the same big challenge: the tension between what sociologist Riane Eisler calls “domination systems” and “partnership systems.” In partnership systems, people take care of one another and the common good and the earth, with respect and trust. In domination systems, power and control are concentrated at the top through fear and violence, and there is corruption and destruction. Racism, authoritarianism, misogyny, and environmental destruction are all features of domination systems. When people have been traumatized, they revert to domination systems. When healing happens, they create partnership systems. We can do this. It requires love and courage.
Fourth, know that “this work is delightful” (Rick Hanson in Ten Percent Weekly). “Choosing to feed the wolf of love” raises our spirits. In the middle of suffering, we bring compassion and authenticity to our work and find joy, love, courage, and hope.
One final thought: Jennifer Garvey Berger, a leading coach, said recently in an interview that the many challenges in the world are calling us to evolve faster and more intentionally. Each of us needs to do the uncomfortable work of developing more deeply, finding the courage to face our projections and fears and learn to connect with others and ourselves. Coaching can help with this. Creating a better world starts with becoming more self-aware and self-responsible. This is not for the faint of heart! But it leads us to be compassionate toward ourselves, toward others, and toward the Earth.
I am struggling as much as anyone else, and constantly working on my own growth in order to meet the challenges around us. But it is a great joy when I get to keep someone else company on their path to do their part for the world. Contact me if you would like to have some coaching as you find your path!
Comentários