I seldom watch TV, but did force myself to tune into both of the political conventions out of a sense of duty. As a naturalized American citizen who swore the oath of citizenship as an earnest teenager, I take my civic responsibilities seriously. I actively participate in the democratic process, donate to political candidates, and never miss a chance to vote at any level of government, whether it's a neighborhood association or a national election.
FEELING SAD
Having absorbed as much of the two conventions as I could, I'm fully prepared to cast my vote for president... into the sea. A sea of sadness, that is. It really hurts me to watch the national shouting match between hyper-polarized choices that is unfolding before our eyes, one that is being portrayed as the only viable path forward in these troubled times. Surely it doesn't have to be this way.
Yes, I understand we live under a two-party system which tends to promote binary selections - but this year there's a particular brand of ugliness in the air surrounding this election, one which isn't restricted to either candidate or political party. This shrillness doesn't bode well for the prospects of an intelligent conversation about our collective future over the next four months until Election Day, much less the Day After, when one of the two sides will have lost, leaving many millions of angry voters operating at a fevered pitch for who knows how long afterwards...
GETTING UNSTUCK
Although it feels important to acknowledge and address this sadness, I'm not willing to stay stuck in the yuck and spend the next three months feeling like a victim being sucked under by a whirlpool of angry voices. Of course, I will still go to the polls in November and cast my vote. But between now and then, I pledge to find ways to mitigate the fear and anger I'm hearing all around and within me. I will do what I can to face, embrace and release the temptation to point fingers and blame someone or something "out there" for causing our problems. And I will do what I can to increase the peace wherever I am. No, I don't know what that means, exactly, but I'm committed to finding ways to take action, nonetheless.
LOGGING ON
In the meantime, I'm feeling somewhat encouraged by a powerful new public awareness campaign called "I Dare To Listen" being sponsored by Texas Public Radio. Basically, this initiative invites us to let go of our need to tell others what we think, long enough to hear them tell us what they think. It's a wonderfully simple and potentially transformative concept. And, yes, I know it's an idea that's much easier to talk about than do. But that doesn't make it any less important. Which is why I invite you to join me in this effort by logging onto the website at idaretolisten.org and sign the pledge to listen to other people's voices with respect.
The campaign reminds us "We don't have to agree on everything. Diversity of opinion is a cornerstone of our democracy. Reasonable minds can differ. But we must be willing to truly listen to one another." It's just a small step forward, but I'm glad to be able to take it - and hope to walk alongside you in doing so, as we co-create a positive future.
With gratitude and blessings,
Rudi
THANKS...
to all who are holding the Circle in thoughts and prayers by visualizing a generous flow of financial abundance. And thanks to those who have responded to our appeal for donations to help us move through this temporary financial low spot. To date we have received $3,333 in gifts. Thank you for supporting us in dancing through the coming months, as we continue our vital work of fostering a creative, inclusive approach to spirituality. We are deeply grateful.
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