Rumi Had It RIght
I’ve had a life long interest in national and international politics. I’ve consistently followed political developments but, until recently, I have never been fully captured by them. Pre 2016, I was a reader and an observer with an opinion. My daily life, however, revolved around my family, my work, my friends, my creative pursuits, and time spent outdoors hiking, bicycling, or being. Other than reading the news and maybe listening to a couple of podcasts, my life wasn’t dramatically affected by my interest in government and civil dealings. But everything changes, right? Unfortunately, the current administration has disrupted my priorities in life. The interests and activities are still there but now there is always something else in the shadows. I can’t escape the fear and anger that lurks behind ordinary moments.
I’m wondering how to manage this visitor to the shadows of my days. I want the impossible - time shift backwards, please - but that’s not happening. I refuse to put my head in the sand and ignore what is going on. However, it’s also not personally helpful to get as invested as I currently am in the demolition of our democracy. I write emails. I go to demonstrations. I financially support candidates. I stay tuned into my community (as much as I ever have, anyway). I put effort into creative endeavors. I go outside every single day. I do follow several political newsletters but I’ve vetted them. I want the sources to be experts in their fields, I want them to offer useful strategies for me, and, maybe, most importantly of all, I want the experts to keep hope alive through their words.
I saw the above quote the other day. It knocked my socks off. There’s my answer. Be the love that needs to exist in the world right now. Don’t move or think only through the lens of fear. Don’t let anger or despair damage your health. Don’t allow yourself to be split. Know that life is not only black and white. Look for the gray, look for the colors. Breathe. Be inclusive and generous. Practice love.
Stay curious.
Oh Graciewilde,
You are just where I am. Some days I am so angry that we allow this disgusting group to run us into the ground…,
Then I am so tired and depressed I can barely stop crying. I try and find hope… I try to stay curious, I try to figure out where to center myself.
Thank goodness for our writing companions! You help so much. Thank you.
Gray is my new favorite color anyway!
In my perspective, it all comes back to "what can I change?" And that's just me.