Aspects of Being
Last week I spoke of the pervasive yet obscure and indefinable uncertainty that has invaded our cultures in the wake of last September's events. I also spoke of what we might focus on instead of the dark aspects, real as they are. As real, truly, were these other aspects mentioned... It seems sad, yet is true enough, that it often takes a crisis in one's life to get to, or at least begin a journey towards the heart of what really matters. This time, it seems that we must all go through it together. No small undertaking, that. Last year a survey was taken in The States (not that I'm big on surveys) stating that 70% of folks believed Spirituality was a top priority after the September attack. These numbers may well be an honest reflection, seeing as the economy took a nosedive that the powers-that-be have been trying to recover from ever since. We have felt the repercussions sure enough, yet we are indeed preoccupied with other matters. Furthermore, it is no great comfort to realize that a new mindset may strip us of what we once held as virtually sacred...yet it has been said that Crisis is simply the rearrangement of things that were not functioning ideally in the first place. If the truth be told, and at the risk of sounding 'anarchistic', I wouldn't be the first one to speak of it... It is in fact as widespread as the endless lines of communication opening up, as well as those that were embraced some time ago by others with foresight ("Silent Spring", anyone?). Our cultures, our economies, and many of our livelihoods are wholly based on utter disregard for this Living Earth, as well as the people inhabiting it. It's long been so. These paradigms that we have either wholly accepted and participated in, or have had no previous cause to object to now suddenly ring hollow, if not crass. So it would seem... It is a time of deep reflection, painful of course, yet necessary. If it is needful, then it cannot be all bad - truly - this should be realized. While there is much to be said for the welcome inner peace and strength gained by getting back on one's feet after having fallen, the powers-that-be would have us jump back onto the very same Fast Track as the old, and as quickly as possible. Again, the truth is that when things have vastly changed, nothing can go back to what we like to call "normal". It is but another illusion that only invites and contributes to continuing ignorance - a false sense of security - certain to be shattered again. Our own human paradox throughout history invites us to investigate this notion! We seek knowledge, betterment, exploration and advancement, enlightenment if you please... yet we often cling stubbornly to the very things which have comfortably held us fast, rooted to the spot. We cannot have it both ways, and we struggle... Anyone who has ever mourned is familiar with the resentment of advice coming from someone who hasn't a clue regarding this journey. It is indeed private and sacred. The pain may be unfathomable, but the possibilities for healing, learning, and growth are in fact endless. Beware of those parties
now offering solidarity and 'redemption', and who's interests they actually
represent. Now is the time to look with new eyes...
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