This past week left me reeling as it did so many of the people in my circle. I was reminded how so many of us, in spending time with like-minded individuals, can live inside a bubble of belief that more people are “like us” than we might imagine. I have also been exposed to many different viewpoints about how to handle the situation in which we find ourselves, and despite my fears and reservations and typical (for me) venturing toward the apocalyptic, I have begun to stabilize and put myself back together.
Byron Katie says “If you argue with reality, you lose, but only 100% of the time.” She reminds me that if things were supposed to be different, they would be different. The very definition of the word “should” or “supposed to” indicates a tension between what is and what will be. If things are intended to change, if Trump is not “supposed” to be president, if our country and our world are “supposed” to be different, they will be. For me this work begins inside myself. It is vital that I continue to meditate, that I continue to remain open to listening to and understanding any other person I encounter, and that I refuse to step into dualistic thinking. For myself I see this polarization as a primary issue, a seductive ideology that allows me to feel righteous and bolstered, and yet does nothing to help heal or connect or move forward.
Thus I do yoga. And I smile at strangers. And I help people when I can, and I take care of myself, and I listen to my heart as it pulls me forward toward unfolding my purpose in this world, Trump or no.
May we all find it in ourselves to soften and open to each other. Namaste
