The earth & it’s inhabitants are hurting. What can I/we do?

I am guilty of choosing to look away when it comes to many serious issues the world is facing. The roots and structure of these complicated problems are confusing to process. Brainstorming solutions seems even harder. I don’t usually know what to do or how to help. When I try to visualize potential solutions, my mind starts buzzing and bouncing around all over the place in a seemingly never-ending loop of ‘problem > potential solution > different problem that solution would bring > potential solution for that problem that leads to a different problem > and on.’ My body becomes hot with emotions like sadness, anger, confusion, and empathy. I hate when I don’t know how to fix something. When I feel helpless, it’s easy for me to get engulfed in these powerful emotions, so I’ve learned to look away and shut myself off to paths that lead to these intense feelings. I don’t necessarily like this about myself, but its a defense mechanism. It feels easier to choose willful ignorance and focus on what I can control in the little bubble that I operate in every day.

My husband put on a documentary the other night. I had been wanting to watch it for some time, but always seemed to find an excuse not to. I knew I would feel a lot when I chose to watch it some day. I was avoiding these feelings.

This time around, I chose to watch it. It split me open. I expected this, but wasn’t sure what I would do with the feelings when they arose.

I debrief my thoughts in this episode. I was still somewhat in shock when I recorded this because the documentary was so powerful. It certainly planted a large seed in my life to start doing better and being better when it comes to saving and preserving the other life that exists on this planet, and just in general.

A vast majority of the past choices I’ve made when it comes to what I purchase, what I consume, and the resources I use have been ignorant, unconscious, and lacking intention. Choosing to not look away, and instead fighting for something that is meaningful is an alternative that is worth considering.

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