Dear Listeners,
A recent conversation with a friend who was feeling low about humanity’s direction got me thinking. He noticed our society devolving and was wondering how to keep hope alive. He was concerned why people’s ability to function appeared to decline, why a segment of the population seemed to have difficulty holding a job, and why communication seemed to become progressively difficult (can you get someone on the phone?). While his work focuses on violence, that also appeared to increased nationally and internationally, while the spin of social media tightens and culture arguments heat up further… he noticed how mental health needs rise.
How to navigate all this?
I understand the feeling of overwhelm regarding the ‘state of the world’ and/or the helplessness regarding changing it. Yes, it is hard for one person to stop a war…. but what if you looked in another direction? What if you, the reader, stopped warring within. Or warring with family, neighbors or friends. To begin to change the world, consider how a small change can initiate with you and then impact all you touch. Individually. The power of that change- in your state of being- is immense. It shouldn’t be underestimated. The feeling of helplessness is understandable, it is hard for one person to stop a war thousands of miles away, but it is directly accessible to stop one within.
Another way to consider this; how can any of us ‘be in it but not of it.’ Meaning, how to live in this world, in this radically changing time and stay solid within. I think that is the goal in this timeframe- to make the best of life’s circumstances. To create harmony in our inner world.
You can begin this process by attending to any aspects of living (a brief list assembled below to get your mind curious) pick one;
create peace in mind, and peace in emotions
take care of the physical body (rest, nutrition, exercise, medical, etc…)
identify philosophical/spiritual inspiration (to make sense of the world or life’s experiences)
cultivate interesting/rewarding work
maintaining connection with others
explore devotion in something greater than yourself
ensure time for fun/recreation
Today’s meditation intends to help you cultivate an inner stillness mentally and emotionally. Practice it every so often, maybe a few time a week. You may consider rotating some of the meditations I’ve posted.
I suggest you become mentally flexible and find multiple ways to settle your thoughts, which might include engaging the senses to focus the mind (such as the mindfulness of hearing), versus the practice of visualization to focus the mind.
I’d like to share my excitement: this pod has had 2,300 meditation downloads thus far! While my pod is tiny, I’m very excited these meditations have made this reach and hope the numbers will continue to grow exponentially spreading opportunities for peace during these trying times. I appreciate every referral and like.
Take care of yourself~
Another day in grand central terminal, abuzz with the hustle and bustle of the city. Practice at home, practice at the stop light, practice as you wait for the train. Every moment is an opportunity for change.
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