In the midst of the inner and outer turmoil we have been feeling and witnessing lately, we must remember that at the end of the day, we must look inward toward ourselves to change anything.
Whether we want to admit it or not, most of us are doing what we think is best with whatever we’ve been taught and unfortunately, some people often act selfishly and violently. I, like many others, often feel angry, helpless, and sad at the way we treat each other and also the way we treat this planet that sustains our lives.
It’s easy to get caught up in stories that are half true and quickly point the finger. We can place blame, but it won’t change anything. We need to get right on the inside so that we can reflect that outwardly and model it for others, whether it’s our strong personal integrity, kindness, passion, or social activism. Instead of talking about what is wrong, what can you do to improve things in your community? How will you improve your own emotional health so that you can help someone else? We all do things differently; some of us are very vocal and may get involved in public demonstrations or start petitions while others of us may write books or create works of art in hopes that it may touch and inspire someone.
A few weeks ago, I watched a short video of a small group of women performing a powerful haka at Standing Rock. I could only see what the camera was showing me but from what I saw there were only a few people around them. For a moment I thought, “There’s barely anyone there. Who is even watching this?” Then I realized that it’s not always about having a large audience, but that you are doing what you are doing with heart and intention for the collective good. You never know whose heart you are touching and how your actions will affect someone or something even if it’s many years from now.
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