Look for the Good: Spreading Hope in a Difficult Time
All this month on the podcast we’ve been exploring the concept of inner wisdom and spirituality. I can’t help but think that what we believe influences how we are coping through the current crisis, as well as how we are behaving. Are we focused on the greater good or just ourselves? Kindness and compassion are often connected to a belief ink the greater good, and that we are being guided.
I don’t think it matters here for this discussion WHERE you believe the guidance comes from; that can be whatever you need it to be for you. I think spirituality is a very personal and vulnerable journey – we need to find the path by ourselves and for ourselves.
What matters most is again, trusting yourself – not going against whatever you think the guidance is – no matter where you think it originates from. It’s about feeling more grounded, having a way to decompress, breathe, and let go of outcomes. Some use affirmations, mantras, belief statements or religious statements to get them through difficult times.
Gratitude lists can be very helpful in stressful and scary times such as these. I know for me; they help me focus on all the big and little good things instead of the harsh reality that is also in play. I cannot change that reality. And I want to keep proper perspective. Most of life is a mixed bag, often with such stark contrasts that sometimes mess with my head. Like people, when stressed I prefer neat little boxes for experiences. But life is messy and crazy even on a good day.
So, like many of you I try to focus on the helpers. Those of you out there going out of your way to help by donating food, helping vulnerable neighbors or making masks. It brings me joy and hope to see this awful situation bring out the best in the human heart.
I think these wonderful humans are operating out of their own belief systems that support benevolence, kindness, grace and hope. Seeing this from businesses to neighbors is so heartwarming. I also know that by helping and doing we feel less helpless and scared. It’s a way to take some healthy power back by choosing to focus on solutions. And prioritize what matters most: being safe, suffering less, and feeling cared for and loved. I saw something yesterday that said the basis of all medical care is love. I would add that the same for mental health.