How to stay balanced in a world gone upside down.
By Mary Boutieller
How do we, as individuals, as groups, continue to move forward putting one foot in front of the other when so many of us are feeling despair these days? The political tone and decisions of the current U.S. government have me at a loss for words. I’m experiencing so many mixed emotions that I sometimes hardly know what to think. Although I try to write about more positive things, if I’m being honest, and I always try to be, I’m struggling to stay balanced in a world gone upside down.
Yet, each day I wake up, get dressed, work out, talk to family or friends, check emails…day-to-day events that both keep us moored and somewhat distracted from the bigger things. I take time to notice the blue sky, the pollen forming on the trees. I take time to be present, to smile, even to feel happy. If we were always focused on the worries of the world, I think our lives would fall apart.
Anger is one of many emotions we humans experience; one we are often not comfortable with. In my early life, I saw how anger could destroy homes and relationships, and I know that anger isn’t the answer to most problems. We cannot meet hardness with hardness. It would be like banging our heads against a wall.
The great Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” Instead of lashing out, we soften, we try to understand, we put our best selves forward in an attempt to make it okay, even when it isn’t.
So what do we do with all this distress? William Arthur Ward said, “It is wise to direct your anger towards problems, not people; to focus your energies on answers, not excuses.”
If you are feeling frustrated, disillusioned or angry, channel that into positive action. If it’s political, call, write, donate or protest. If it is personal, be willing to speak your truth. Whatever you do, don’t wallow in it, for to stay in the throes of anger only eats away at our souls.
Remember, too, that moving our bodies helps us to dissipate energy—so sing, scream, walk in nature, jump rope, dance, make love. We are sentient beings being flooded with an enormous amount of negativity. We can pretend all is well, hide under the covers, or we can take good care of ourselves and work together to forge a path forward.
I’m reminded of one of Margaret Mead’s quotes, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Don’t give up. Hang in there. To paraphrase a quote I once heard: It will all be okay in the end, and if it isn’t okay, it isn’t the end.
Mary Boutieller is a Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. She has been teaching yoga since 2005. Her work experience includes 22 years as a firefighter/paramedic and 10 years as a Licensed Massage Therapist. Mary’s knowledge and experience give her a well-rounded understanding of anatomy, alignment, health and movement in the body. She is passionate about the benefits of yoga and the ability to heal at all levels through awareness, compassion, and a willingness to explore. She can be reached at: SimplyogaOm@gmail.com.
