Thursday, November 13, 2014

Tackling the Big Problem; To The Farmer's Market

+WonderfulWorld, 16 November 2014
We encounter problems every day. Mostly, these problems are simple choices. However, some problems are more complex or are broader and impact more than just today or just our own life. In these situations, some of us can easily become overwhelmed by the size and scope of what is at stake. In my experience it is the idea of the 'big problem' which must be let go first. The obstacle is our idea of the size of the problem, making it feel insurmountable and impossible to solve.

If it truly is a broad-based issue, the solution must have steps that allow for flexibility and a multifaceted approach, taking the macro-problem and initially breaking it into micro-units that are easier to consider. This can make the first steps less daunting, and once there is some progress or movement on the issue, a broader re-examination can take place. The key is to begin making headway, learning to adapt on-the-spot. Instead of attempting to solve the entire ‘big problem’ all at once, which may only be possible with objectivity, experience and intuitive insight, we’re allowing ourselves to be human.

Whenever we stop reacting to problems and situations, we allow ourselves the opportunity to let our natural presence and awareness to apply itself to the situation. All of our experiences, our intuition and our observations can be critically important in dealing with the ‘big problems’ we encounter. These are all vital when encountering each small choice and daily dilemma as well. Instead of reactivity, we are present and aware enough to begin to learn to know what our intentions are and what actions should be linked to those intentions.

Imagine if we applied ourselves to every step we take, to every human encounter we have, wherever we go and throughout our entire day. Immediately, the entirety of the day becomes a vibrant, workable field that we are actively engaged in with attention and care. We apply physical resources, mental resources, emotional resources and spiritual resources to achieve outcomes we determine are achievable and worthwhile. Imagine that! That is our day. It’s our field, the outcomes of which are the fruits, the vegetables, the crops that we feed ourselves, our families and our communities with each and every day.

Our lives are our farmer’s market. Our ‘big problems’ are our biggest asset. Our choices are what make all the difference. We determine a great deal in our lives and in the lives of others. What is it that we’re really after? Do we wish to help ourselves and others, or to blame ourselves and others?

Let’s start to do something with our day to bring to the human community farmer’s market. It will sustain us, it will sustain others, and it helps to perpetuate what we all want . . . happiness and joy, togetherness and progress.

Saturday, November 8, 2014

The Age of Death by a Thousand Cuts

Once a person is in the cross-hairs, anything and everything they do can be shredded and parsed. Maintaining objectivity becomes terribly difficult.

I remember in 2004 when George W Bush won re-election. I was freaking out about the future of the nation. I watched every communication out of his Administration and shredded it, pounced on it, outraged upon it. Early into 2005, I realized I had to stop . . . for not only my own well-being, but for the well-being of the country.

I made George W Bush my Patient Zero for generating understanding, patience, and compassion. I stopped doing Death by a Thousand Cuts, as that only served my ego and not for the progress for America. This is the Age of Death by a Thousand Cuts. It’s a painful one. It’s why I was so outraged in 2004, and why nearly everyone is so outraged today.

Instead of us talking and discussing about how to resolve our common problems or how to make progress as a country, a society and a culture, we’re relegated to this blame/scream fest. If you’re in the middle, as I am, it can be disheartening. Many just stay on the sidelines instead of engaging because the fever on both sides is so high and the pitch is so intense.

I maintain my objectivity, mostly, and remain non-reactive, emotionally. This is through years of mental and emotional training. I am out to learn.

I’ve been mistaken my entire life, even up to this very moment. I do wish my words to be as correct as they can be to make my intentions clear.

This is an engaging and energizing process because I’m learning. I appreciate each and every word you all write. Thank you!

Monday, November 3, 2014

Wake Up to Our Natural Ability

I think the reason hurt persists for some is in trying to suppress it instead of understand and really feel it.

When we are emotionally or even physically hurt or wounded, there's a reason for it. I mention physical wounds for a reason . . . if you don't know where the wound is, say a splinter, it can be difficult to impossible to remove that splinter and to begin to heal.

It's the suppression of our feelings that takes reasonable emotional pain and turns into persistent and chronic psychological conditions, such as depression and anxiety.

Our modern day society has taught us to suppress our feelings not because it is healthy to do so but I would suggest because emotional openness can trigger emotional responses of others through what are called "mirror neurons." These mirror neurons are how human beings feel and relate with not just one another but with animals and even objects.

Our minds are these amazing vessels that are wired to help ourselves and to help others. There are elements within our society that are more scared of the prospect of everyone waking up to that truth because their control of others would end.

When we wake up to our natural ability to benefit the well being of others, anything is possible.