Solace
By Caroline
After discussing concerns about the state of our nation in many of our sessions lately, I felt that perhaps I could get a little bit “political” here with the hope of bringing you some solace.
Many of you have wondered how to remain positive and hopeful given the attitude of our current administration; some of you are even finding it difficult to express love towards friends or family members who support this government. Indeed, in some instances, friendships have been lost and family relationships ruined over political differences.
For me, this is what came out of those conversations:
- Our country is very young, and, like any youngster, it must go through many phases before reaching “adulthood.” Think of it like a teenager with hormonal mood swings, ups and downs, drama, etc. It will eventually pass as maturity develops.
- More seriously though, the intolerance of this administration has brought up a deep-rooted wound for many of us: racism. This had nearly become a non-subject … something we, as a society, just didn’t talk about much anymore. Ignore it and it will go away. So, how about looking at it from the point of view that it was necessary for this topic to be brought into the spotlight? Like a wound that is infected, by slicing it open you allow the poison to be released. Maybe we should look at this as an opportunity to clean this issue up, once and for all.
- Immigration is another issue that seems to divide people. But, look at all the human rights that have been abused lately. There seems to be resentment for the people who originally came here to do the work that nobody else wanted to do, and still don’t by the way. Here’s the interesting fact, however: With the exception of the Native American Indians, we ALL are immigrants, or descendants of immigrants. That’s every one of us. No exceptions. And, many of our ancestors came here illegally too! Doesn’t that put a little humor in the mix?
- And, my final point, although certainly not the least noteworthy, is this: This past election season saw an unprecedented number of women, from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, take on active political roles. I believe that this was largely due to the current political situation; it prompted women to take a stand for their rights and for positive change for our nation. Change is definitely in the air …
Thinking about our country this way, and the opportunity for positive change, brings me some comfort; I hope it does you as well.
Wishing you a peaceful and loving Holiday Season!
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