Whether it's because of citizens living in poverty, homelessness and hunger, or because of the current political environment, or because of racial disparities, crime or terrorism, whatever your reasons, our reasons, many of us our feeling restless.
Part of why I am feeling restless is due to the continuous barrage of negative news. Is the onslaught of negative news getting you down? For me it's getting exhausting, overwhelming and down right negative and hard to continue to witness the news headlines, the endless social media posts, and related verbal commentary. For me, there is a fine line between fueling the fire with anger and in having your voice be heard.
As positive psychology researcher and author Michelle Gielan says, "We can focus on the problem, but it is equally important to move the brain onto discussion of what we can do about it. Getting the brain to see that there is another path forward and that your behavior matters in the face of challenges is the key to unlocking better health and happiness. The more you seek out inspiration and solutions, the more you fuel your success and that of the people around you."
I think we need more action and less reaction. As author Dottie Fuller recently wrote, "It is time to educate ourselves. It is time to get re-involved. It is time to make our voices heard proactively the right way, starting where we are. It is not the time to share articles that trigger us with the bait and switch headlines or un-researched, smart-ass memes that create more division." It's time to take action. Action instead of reaction.
The time for action is now. What action might look like for you is something that is personal and for you to decide. It depends on what you are passionate about and where your skills and interests lie.
An action-based solution that we can all begin to do today, which will make positive, impactful strides forward on all fronts is meditation. If you didn't see last week's post on the power of group meditation, I invite you to give it a read. It's a powerful intentional practice and a great addition to your activism.
Have hope and faith in the healing power of love and peace. The intention and activism of a small group of individuals is impactful. As Margaret Mead stated, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Stay tuned for more on the movement of bringing mindful love and peace to our communities. We will be organizing with the intention of creating change. Let me know if you would like to get involved.
I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on this post. Please drop me a comment or send me an email.