A deluge of negative news from atmospheric disasters, economic meltdowns, and wars is collectively inundating the minds of humanity. It not only corrodes our trust in the future, but also frays the delicate fabric of communities, and nurtures grievance culture.
Without ignoring the real and tangible threats that our world faces, the fears and anxieties of a collapsing future are just thoughts. Stress always begins in the mind and triggers the reptilian part of the brain.
Freeze, flight or fight
We are hindered from discovering genuine solutions as humanity collectively remains ensnared in the primal instincts of freeze, flight, or fight. In this state, the very essence of our creative minds lies dormant. Our potential for innovation and problem-solving remains untapped, buried beneath the weight of instinctual responses.
Mass media, especially the social media variant feeds on toxic emotions. It exaggerates, inflates, inflames, distorts, and falsifies reality.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself when your emotions have been triggered, and you are stressed out or feel that you are losing control.
- Is it true or is it just my perception? Who said it with what motivation?
- How can I adjust to new circumstances without letting emotions seize control over my mind?
- Is it really important in the bigger picture of things?
- Is it a problem or just a difficulty?
- This too shall pass?
One of the most powerful books of our time is “The Search for Meaning” by Victor Frankl. It was based on his experiences in a concentration camp during World War II. He found that those people who kept their minds focused on a compelling future, despite the most horrific circumstances of the present moment, had a far greater chance of survival.
Frankl argued that even in the most dire circumstances, some of the prisoners who survived the Holocaust identified a deeper reason to live such as the pursuit of a higher purpose or calling.
How is your response to pain and suffering
While you cannot always control external circumstances, you have the power to choose how to respond to those circumstances. By finding meaning in suffering and adversity, you maintain human dignity and inner strength.
In moments of deepest despair, those contemplating suicide often feel utterly bereft of hope, their minds consumed by a relentlessly bleak vision of the future. Yet, just as a single thought can plunge someone into darkness, it holds the power to reshape their destiny into one of brightness, joy, and well-being.
Life’s journey inevitably leads us all toward our ultimate destination—the cessation of our physical existence. However, amidst the uncertainties of this voyage, there lies an opportunity to embrace the present and celebrate every moment.
Rather than succumbing to despair, why not choose to savor the journey, finding solace in the beauty that surrounds you, and in doing so, discovering a profound sense of purpose and contentment?
Keeping the monkey mind under control
Nobody knows what the future might bring. We therefore should keep that monkey mind under control that is jumping incessantly from branch to branch. Keep your feet firmly planted to the ground and focus your mind on your breathing.
By inhaling I know that I am inhaling. Exhaling I’m aware that I’m exhaling. Breathe and focus your mind on the present moment. The present moment is the only reality. It is the only truth.
Life is seasonal and choreographed like an intricate dance between opposing forces. We sway between night and day, navigating through darkness and light, embracing both happiness and sadness, tasting the bitter tang of scarcity and sweet abundance. Dancing between the opposites without attachment is what gives life purpose and meaning.
When you invite the light to penetrate the depths of your shame, and the wounds of your fear, and anxiety, life becomes a transformational ritual. Illuminating the shadows of your unconscious mind serves as the sacred trailhead, guiding you into the divine plan of your soul purpose.
Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker
P.S. I’m excited to announce the release of my latest book, “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living.” If you enjoy it, you might also be interested in my previous works, “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago.” You can find all of these titles at reputable bookstores near you.
ReinosBlog 