by | August 26, 2024 · 7:12 am

Divine Whispers and the Pursuit of Happiness

In a world plagued by anger and fear, the pursuit of happiness is primarily directed toward external gratification and distractions, causing much pain. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to seek quiet moments of solitude to rediscover true meaning, purpose, and a life of bliss.

The ancient Mystics often interpret the voice of the divine as coming in a whisper, a still voice within the soul, giving guidance and instructions on the spiritual journey, especially when reconnecting with the beauty and harmony found in nature.

Evil draws to what is other

As opposed to the wholeness and beauty of divine creation, the 13th-century Mystic Meister Eckart describes evil as essentially “accidental in its nature: it stands outside, draws and directs things outwards, distracts from inner things, draws to what is other, smacks of otherness of division, withdrawal or falling away. Evil, therefore is nothing but a defect or shortcoming.”

In experiential spirituality the divine is perceived through silent contemplation or in a state of presence and being that transcends concept and language. The Mystics understood divine truth as direct experience rather than surrender to the fixed belief and dogma of religion.

After walking the Camino de Santiago for the first time in 2006 I sensed this “something” of a mystery beyond concept and religion. I have meanwhile walked more than a dozen Caminos, which has for me become an annual retreat of inner reflection. I’ve spoken to hundreds of pilgrims on the Camino who have had a profound transformation in reconnecting with their inner voice whilst walking on this magical path.

But there are also many other ways including the creation of a “quiet space” amid the turmoil of a busy and noisy life.

Between time and eternity

Meister Eckhart describes the soul as created in a place between time and eternity:

“With its highest powers it touches Eternity, with its lower Time. To the extent that the soul is able to withdraw from Time and its concerns, the more God is revealed in it and the more God is speaking in it and by it.”

The whispers from the universe or God can be heard most clearly when the soul transcends the temporal and focuses on the eternal, turning contemplatively inward.

A life of bliss, according to Eckart, is closely aligned to living a “virtuous life” in seeking connection with the divine. Every person has a divine spark within them—a part of God that resides in the soul. A virtuous life involves living in awareness of this divine presence within and allowing it to guide one’s actions.

Eckhart emphasizes the importance of inner purity and detachment from worldly desires and attachments. For him, a virtuous life involves freeing oneself from ego, selfishness, and the distractions of the material world. This detachment allows the soul to be more receptive to God’s presence and to act from a place of divine inspiration rather than personal will.

The famous Sufi poet Rumi describes in one of his lines:

“The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you. Don’t go back to sleep.”

The subtle, quiet communication from the divine comes in moments of stillness when all the senses are sharpened to full presence.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you will be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

Check out also the latest episode on the Living to BE podcast and Youtube with our special guest Matt O’Neill. The topic: Happiness is a Choice

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by | August 20, 2024 · 8:42 am

The words we use matter

Words have a powerful impact on both mental and physical health, and leaders bear a significant responsibility in choosing words that resonate within a nation’s collective consciousness, either undermining or strengthening social cohesion.

When political or thought leaders normalize belittling, insulting, or threatening language, it sets a precedent for their followers to do the same. It has now become almost impossible to discuss an emotional or controversial topic on social media without it devolving into personal attacks.

Positive words can uplift mood, foster a sense of connection, and enhance self-esteem, while negative words can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress.

Repetition of negative words impacts your health

Repeated repetition of words that trigger anger and fear reinforces harmful beliefs and thought patterns, cementing a pessimistic or fearful worldview. They turn on the body’s fight-or-flight response, leading to increased heart rate, elevated cortisol levels, and muscle tension.

A well-known study published in 2015 in the journal Psychological Science analyzed Twitter language from different counties across the United States. The researchers found that the frequency of negative words related to anger, stress, and fatigue was a strong predictor of heart disease mortality in those areas. This predictive power was even stronger than traditional factors like smoking and obesity rates.

Negative social media interactions can turn on stress pathways in the body, leading to chronic inflammation, higher blood pressure, and other risk factors.

Positive affirmations promote mental well-being

In contrast, repeated positive affirmations or mindfulness practices involving positive language can lead to lasting changes in brain pathways, promoting greater mental well-being.

Kind, supportive, and empathetic language strengthens relationships and builds social bonds, which are crucial for mental health. Positive words turn on reward centers in the brain, while negative words trigger fear and pain.

Words can trigger the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, reduce stress levels, and promote relaxation. Here are just some examples of many: love, peace, stillness, breath, kind, smile, cheer, kind, value, and gratitude.

The Power of Mantras and Prayer

Various studies have revealed that recitation of certain prayers and mantras has a particularly positive effect on heart rate variability and cardiovascular health.

The song “Ave Maria,” particularly in its various classical renditions like those by Franz Schubert or Charles Gounod, is known to have a profound calming, and soothing effect on the body and mind. The spiritual connection can evoke feelings of comfort, protection, and spiritual upliftment, quietening the mind and reducing mental chatter.

One of the most widely used and revered mantras in Tibetan Buddhism is “Om Mani Padme Hung”. The mantra is particularly helpful in purifying negative emotions like anger, jealousy, and attachment. Practitioners can cultivate a more compassionate and loving mindset, leading to greater emotional balance and resilience. Chanting the mantra typically involves deep, rhythmic breathing, which can improve oxygenation of the body, enhance lung capacity, and promote a sense of physical calm.

In summary, the words we hear and use in our vocabulary shape who we are, impacting our relationships and our physiological and psychological health.

In moments when the external world pulses with negativity, it’s crucial to establish healthy boundaries and elevate your own vibrational energy. Cultivating a space of stillness, positivity, joy, and self-care becomes essential.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | August 12, 2024 · 3:55 pm

The Power of Forgiveness: Healing and Empowering

A few months after Nelson Mandela was released from 27 years of imprisonment by South Africa’s apartheid regime, I had the extraordinary privilege of meeting him at his home with a small group of journalists.

As I stood in his presence, I couldn’t help but wonder how a man who had endured such immense suffering could radiate such profound kindness and show no desire for retribution toward those who had wronged him.

The answer became clear when he shared a powerful insight: “Forgiveness liberates the soul, it removes fear. That’s why it’s such a powerful weapon.”

A powerful message of leadership

Mandela’s wisdom and unwavering commitment to forgiveness set him apart as a leader of unparalleled stature, guiding his nation from the brink of civil war to the dawn of a modern democracy. His example is a powerful reminder of the qualities of leadership that are so desperately needed in our world today.

Seeking retribution for wrongs committed by others is at the heart of the Middle East conflict and peace will not be found unless Israelis and Palestinians learn to forgive each other. It is difficult enough on a personal level to forgive but wise leaders of a country can make all the difference.

Are you struggling to forgive yourself and others? The biblical story of Joseph is one of the most powerful teachings of how the ways of the universe or God can be very different from the plans we often make in life.

Joseph was slandered, beaten, and sold into slavery by his own brothers because of jealousy. Joseph could have easily succumbed to his fate but he never lost faith that everything in life had purpose and meaning.

The trap of the blame game

Only from such a perspective could he forgive his brothers and move out of the trap of the blame game. He made the best out of his situation to such an extent that Potiphar, the man who bought him on the slave market in Egypt, soon promoted him to a higher position. Later he was put in charge of managing Potiphar’s huge estate.

Potiphar had taken a liking to Joseph and must have been impressed by his kindness, wisdom, and humility. For all intents and purposes, Joseph had made it. But Potiphar’s bored wife had taken just as much a liking to the handsome young Joseph.

Realizing that he would betray his master who had done so much for him, Joseph avoided the advances of Potiphar’s wife who became so upset that she accused him of rape. Joseph was thrown into prison losing everything. He could again have succumbed to despondency.

But it so happens that he meets in prison two of the Pharaoh’s ministers who had lost favor with the ruler. One of them was eventually released from prison and restored to his old position. Only when the Pharaoh had a strange dream did the minister remember the time in prison with Joseph who had impressed him as an interpreter of dreams.

Long story short: Joseph gets released from prison to interpret the Pharaoh’s dream. The essence of the dream was that the ruler had to prepare the country for seven years of drought. Amazingly Joseph’s fortune changed in an instant when the Pharaoh recognized the wisdom of the man he was dealing with.  Joseph is promoted to viceroy of all of Egypt as the righthand man of the most powerful ruler of the world at the time.

Life comes in strange twists and turns

True to the dream interpretation the drought did come and only by wise management of the food and grain resources could countless lives be saved including those of Joseph’s brother and aging father Jacob.

Life comes often in strange twists and turns. Fortunes can be earned and lost overnight. High positions of political power and influence may be gone tomorrow. The amazing story of Joseph is that he never lost trust and faith. By forgiving his brothers and Potiphar’s wife for falsely accusing him, he made peace with himself and could go into trust and humility. From that energy grew his wisdom and incredible foresight to prevent a catastrophe.

Forgiving does not mean approval of wrongdoing

Forgiving does not mean that you are approving of wrongdoing, of abuse, and all the terrible things that humans do to each other. It is making peace with the past in the knowledge that you are the person today because of all of that which you have experienced.

The famous Austrian psychiatrist Victor Frankl only survived the Nazi death camps by telling himself that “everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s one way.”

Forgiveness is self-care at the highest level

Forgiveness requires a conscious decision to release feelings of resentment and vengeance toward someone who has harmed you. It is self-care at the highest level.

Forgiveness allows you to release negative emotions and to move on in life. Remaining locked in hate and retribution keeps you at a low vibrational energy that prevents you from spotting the new opportunities the universe is presenting to you.

By choosing to forgive, you are paving the way to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. You are creating room for positive feelings to flourish.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | August 4, 2024 · 9:53 am

Scapegoating and Misinformation: A Lethal Combination

Minds consumed by fear, anxiety, and thoughts of retribution are easily captured by hate preachers and demagogues. The scenes unfolding in the UK—right-wing extremists burning businesses of small shop-owners, targeting mosques, and attacking innocent bystanders of color—are tragic repetitions of history.

What distinguishes the current situation is the dramatically enhanced tools available to extremists, amplifying their impact. Over the weekend, at least 30 violent protests erupted across the UK, largely fueled by misinformation spread on social media claiming that an illegal Muslim immigrant was responsible for killing three young girls and injuring several others.

An account called Europe Invasion, known to publish Islamophobic and anti-immigrant content, posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the suspect was “alleged to be a Muslim immigrant”. The post was viewed more than six million times. And as the post was accruing views, crowds of far-right protesters were swelling in Southport, ready to charge local mosques.

The truth was that the attacker in Southport was identified by police as a 17-year-old, Axel Rudakubana, who was born in Britain, and that the attack was not terrorist-related. The motive for the attack remains unclear.

Scapegoating during times of crisis

Countless similar incidents can be cited throughout history where minority groups have been targetted by hysterical crowds, falling prey to rumors, misinformation, and hate speech. During the Black Death in Europe in the 14th-century thousands of innocent people were killed for allegedly spreading the pestilence. Jews were blamed for poisoning drinking wells. The baseless accusations led to widespread violence and massacres against Jewish communities throughout Europe, including the Strasbourg massacre in 1349, where around 2,000 Jews were burned alive.

In 1779, anti-Catholic riots were incited by Lord George Gordon in London, spreading fears that the Papists Act of 1778 would lead to Catholic dominance. The resulting violence lasted several days, leading to widespread destruction, looting, and the deaths of around 300 people.

Social media platforms must bear responsibility

The difference is that misinformation in our age can spread globally within seconds, reaching millions of people. Social media platforms must bear responsibility for failing or unwilling to remove obviously false information. As we have seen in the latest riots in the UK, the consequences can be devastating.

During times of crisis, there is a need to seek simple answers to complex problems. Cognitive closure and confirmation bias make people dismiss facts and contradictory evidence. Scapegoating provides psychological relief and an outlet for fear, anger, and underlying grievance culture.

Exclusion of outsiders by Group and tribal-think

“Group” and “tribal-think” views all those outside the “tribe” as outsiders. During times of economic and social crises, the in-group/out-group dynamic becomes more pronounced, leading to the vilification of those perceived as different or threatening.

Responsible leadership and fact-checking journalism become more important than ever. Individuals and social media platforms should be made accountable on a global level for spreading hate and misinformation.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | July 29, 2024 · 3:27 pm

The Hidden Climate Culprits: Livestock Emissions

With temperatures soaring well over 40 degrees Celcius here on the Mediterranean island of Mallorca, local authorities have imposed water restrictions and warned people to avoid heat stroke by staying indoors for most of the day.

As climate change warms the planet, heat waves are becoming more common and lasting longer. Vulnerable population groups, especially the elderly, are exposed to life-threatening temperatures. Nature is affected by drying soils and vegetation, posing higher fire risks, according to a recent study.

Climate change is shifting entire populations

Mallorca is Europe’s main holiday destination with tourism generating most of the island’s income. The problem is that the island’s limited water resources can no longer cope with an estimated 18 million visitors this year. In the long-term tourists will be choosing cooler places to go in the northern hemisphere such as Scandinavia.

For most of us these are only the beginnings of rapid climate change. We have not been forced to leave our homes, like the millions of people in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America who are bearing the brunt of climate change. Repeated flash floods or extreme dry seasons have destroyed large swathes of agricultural land.

Partisan politicization of climate change has muddied the waters

The warning signs and news reports of extreme weather patterns are getting louder by the day. Unfortunately, the issue of climate change has become extremely politicized and prey to America’s culture wars. The climate scientists, who in most cases have studied this field for decades, are getting increasingly alarmed that sound scientific data is being ignored or lambasted as fake.

When I attended the summit of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in Bonn in 1999, scientists got only one thing wrong. The climate scenarios of extreme weather patterns they had predicted by the middle of this century are already a reality in the year 2024.

Based on the annual report from NOAA’s Global Monitoring Lab, global average atmospheric carbon dioxide was 419.3 parts per million (“ppm” for short) in 2023, setting a new record high. In 1999 the rate of ppm was 367 and some of those scientists I interviewed at the time warned that the tipping point of no return was around 420 ppm.

The human mind tends to go into denial when faced with problems that seem too complex, distant, or threatening to the status quo. Climate activists may have erred in choosing the term “global warming” instead of “climate change.”

Reframing the fossil fuel debate to emphasize pollution, such as clean air, clean rivers, and biodiversity, could be more persuasive. Additionally, reliance on fossil fuels finances some of the world’s most oppressive regimes.

Climate scientists have long warned that extreme weather patterns—including hurricanes, severe winters followed by scorching summers, and flash flooding—would become increasingly common.

Mass animal production and climate change

Climate activists have not done their cause any favor by targeting the airline industry and blaming motorists for most of the carbon dioxide emissions. Somehow the animal food-producing industry has managed to dodge the fact that it impacts climate change to a far greater extent than the transportation industry.

Scientists were aware that the methane produced by grazing cattle – around two-thirds of livestock emissions come from cows – was a significant chunk of the anthropogenic greenhouse gases that were heating the planet’s atmosphere. However, there had been no attempt to quantify how large a chunk it might be.

The report estimated that livestock were responsible for 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions – including nine percent of anthropogenic CO2 emissions, mostly due to deforestation for (pasture and) feed crops, 37% of anthropogenic methane emissions, largely from cow burps, 65% of anthropogenic nitrous oxides, overwhelmingly from manure and 64% of anthropogenic ammonia emissions, according to a study by Henning Steinfeld, head of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)’s livestock policy branch.

And then there is the issue of food waste. According to a WWF report about 6%-8% of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced if we stop wasting food. In the US alone, the production of lost or wasted food generates the equivalent of 32.6 million cars’ worth of greenhouse gas emissions.

There is still hope. Our species has survived for so many thousands of generations because we have the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. By making conscious choices on what you buy in the grocery store and what you eat, you will not only be turning things around on your own health but also that of the planet.

There are numerous health benefits by focusing on foods that are nutrient-dense, minimally processed, and sustainably produced:

  • Opt for locally produced and seasonal products such as leafy greens, berries, carrots, tomatoes, apples, and citrus fruits.
  • Production of lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and peas have lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health through nitrogen fixation.
  • Poultry generally has a lower carbon footprint than red meat. Choose organic and free-range options.
  • Steer clear of seafoods that don’t have sustainable eco-labelling. Species like sardines, anchovies, and herring are lower on the food chain and reproduce quickly, making them more sustainable options.

Processed foods often have added sugars, additives, unhealthy fats, and preservatives. Their production is resource-intensive, resulting in high transportation costs and greenhouse gas emissions. By better planning your meals, storing food properly, and using leftovers you can minimize waste.

Starting with these small changes, you can contribute to a more livable planet while enjoying a healthier life with more energy, better sleep, and mental resilience.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | July 23, 2024 · 8:03 am

The shooter: A problem of angry young men

A 20-year-old individual with mental health issues narrowly missed assassinating former President Donald Trump, with the bullet missing him by just an inch. While the media highlights the apparent security lapses, the deeper concern lies in the alarming pattern of another troubled, angry young person resorting to gun violence.

Minutes after the incident, both sides of the political spectrum devolved into outlandish conspiracy theories, blaming each other for inciting political extremism with their rhetoric. However, the incident reflects a broader issue: a troubled young man who could have directed his violence at any other prominent person or innocent people in a school or shopping mall.

Young men responsible for mass shootings

Nearly all mass shootings in the United States have been committed by young men. A 2019 report titled “Mass Murder with Firearms: Incidents and Victims, 1999-2013” provides detailed demographic breakdowns, showing that most mass shooters are male and often in their 20s and 30s.

For most people outside the United States, the gun culture and the ease with which deeply disturbed human beings can get access to highly dangerous weapons is incomprehensible.

The man who fired at Trump, Thomas Mathew Crooks, fits the profile of most other shooters such as social isolation, mental health challenges, and access to a firearm. His political views seem ambiguous. We will never know his motives after he was killed by a secret service agent sniper.

Regression into macho-culture

A breakdown of recent European elections and the MAGA culture in the United States reveals that a large swathe of young men are regressing into an unhealthy demagogic macho culture headed by male figureheads, tapping into their grievances, anger, and lack of self-esteem.

Recent studies and statistics show us that young women in their early twenties are crushing it on nearly all levels from education to job performance while men in the same age group are falling behind with a devastating impact on their mental health.

According to the U.S. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in 2020, about 59 percent of all undergraduate students were women, while 41 percent were men. In the 2019-2020 academic year women earned 60 percent of all Masters degrees and 54 percent of all doctoral degrees.

Higher education levels mean higher earnings with women in their early twenties increasingly entering high-paying fields in traditionally male-dominated industries like tech and engineering.

Young men in their early twenties typically report higher rates of substance abuse across various categories. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2020, some 53.4 percent of young men aged 18-25 reported binge drinking in the past month, compared to 40.3 percent of women in the same age group.

Young men typically far outnumber women when it comes to violent crime and the number of prison inmates. While over 1.1 million men serve time in prison in the United States the number of women is only 80,000.

A poll by the Institute of Politics (IOP) at Harvard Kennedy School revealed striking differences between how young Democrats, Republicans, and independents view the role of men and women in society. Young men are increasingly turning away from the Democrats and adopting more conservative Republican ideology.

In a culture where young men have the feeling they are losing out, macho male political extremists are telling them that the system is rigged against them, that immigrants and minorities are responsible for their misery, and that science is a hoax.

Overly rigid “woke” and “cancel culture” sidelines individuals for perceived transgressions contributing to societal divisiveness.

We have seen a dangerous precedent where fascist movements in Germany, Spain, and Italy during the early 1930s were led by charismatic leaders such as Hitler, Mussolini, and Franco. Fascist movements are male-dominated macho cults, emphasizing traditional gender roles. Project 2025, a plan crafted by the Heritage Foundation and various conservative groups emphasizes the role of men as providers and protectors while advocating for women primarily as caretakers and nurturers within the traditional nuclear family context.

Young men turning to the right, women to the left

A strong gender gap in political affiliation can also be detected in countries such as Germany where young men are increasingly turning to more conservative views while women in the same age group tend to vote for progressive parties. Based on recent data, it can be estimated that around 30-35 percent of young men in their early twenties in France support right-wing parties, particularly the National Rally and similar far-right parties.

In the recent European elections, the upsurge in support for right-wing parties was fueled by young voters, especially young men, embracing hardline anti-immigration views. According to pollsters political allegiances forged in young adulthood tend to last for a lifetime with the trend toward radicalism unlikely to ebb anytime soon.

While political parties on the extreme fringes are propagating the message to young men that external circumstances are responsible, the real issue of their pain is not addressed. A multi-faced approach is needed:

  • We urgently need to promote healthy, non-toxic models of masculinity that allow for emotional expression and vulnerability.
  • Peer support groups and mentoring programs can assist young men in sharing their experiences
  • Community-based programs that offer team sports, skill-building workshops, and social support can help reduce social isolation.

We cannot allow demagogues and political cults to poison the minds of young men with a false sense of meaning and purpose with a regression into a macho-culture, glorifying gun culture and confusing self-empowerment with the use of force.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | July 15, 2024 · 10:26 am

Political Divisions in America: Concerns from a Global Perspective

Many Americans in rural Georgia, Kansas, or Texas may not realize that people in Europe and around the world are closely watching events in the United States with growing concern as political divisions deepen.

The assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump seems likely to intensify extremism and further entrench these divisions.

People like me, living on an island in the Mediterranean, are perplexed. I talk to many friends and family in the United States and have noticed in recent times families breaking up and lifelong friendships being terminated over political differences.

The perception has always been that the United States is a creatively free, dynamic, tolerant, multi-cultural nation of boundless opportunity and human endeavor. You have gifted the world with some of the best music, art, and technological tools.

How is it possible that the world’s arguably most powerful and successful nation in economic and military terms can so lose the plot over issues such as basic democratic norms, women’s rights, and religious freedom?

The United States remains the only superpower

Events in the United States have vast geopolitical consequences considering the military and political power wielded by the person sitting in the White House. With a GDP of 26 trillion dollars in 2023 the U.S. economy far surpassed the world’s second-largest economy China with a GDP of 19 trillion dollars followed by the economies of Germany, Japan, and India.

The U.S. defense budget of about 813 billion dollars is the largest in the world. For fiscal year 2023, it was approximately $813 billion. Compared to Russia, China, and India the U.S. military is by far the most powerful, and technologically advanced.

As an outsider looking at events in the United States from afar, here are some thoughts:

  • Despite a booming economy, it appears that a significant portion of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. There is a perception that they will never live the American dream and that the system is rigged against them by elites in Washington and New York. These people are particularly prone to nostalgia rhetoric that promotes the idea that America was once a great country that has degenerated into chaos.
  • American media, especially local and regional newspapers, were once prime examples of good journalism and fact-checking. There was a clear distinction between news and editorial comment or opinion. The digital revolution has basically killed-off professional journalism. Mass media in America earns its revenues with entertainment and drama, rather than educating and informing. News channels from the left and the right are propagandistic and serve two different perceptions of reality.
  • The tribal bubbles are served by algorithms on social media, emphasizing confirmation bias and grievance culture. Beliefs are cemented, and other viewpoints and even solid science are rejected as fake news.
  • Russian and Chinese bot factories have played significant roles in fanning divisions, fears, hate, and anxieties, through social media as part of their broad information warfare. Russian bots were particularly successful in promoting the Russian narrative on the war in Ukraine with U.S. congressmen on the right.

Devastating consequences for an inward-looking America

When America turns ever more inward with an “America First” philosophy and withdraws from such established institutions as NATO, the consequences are too ghastly to contemplate. The globalized economy has become increasingly intertwined. Disruptions of markets elsewhere will inevitably have a major impact on the man in the street in Detroit or Phoenix. The power void will be filled by other forces such as China and Russia, gaining control of major natural resources and trade routes.

Of particular concern in Europe is a possible withdrawal of U.S. military support for Ukraine. Retired U.S. commanding officer of U.S. forces in Europe, Ben Hodges, paints a devastating scenario if Ukraine should lose the war against Russia or be forced into an unacceptable peace agreement. Millions of Ukrainian refugees would massively disrupt the social order in Western Europe.

“Failure of Ukraine will have devastating consequences for Europe and for the United States. If Ukraine fails, Russia will absorb tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops into their ranks. They’ll be forced into the service and then they’ll be used as cannon fodder on the next phase of what Russia attempts. This will most likely be against Moldova, or against Lithuania or maybe even Poland,” according to Hodges.

To my American friends, I say: Your decision in November will have a major impact on lives all over the world. Who ultimately benefits from the hatred and division? Will you serve as a beacon for the rule of law, tolerance, and democratic norms or serve as a template for the dictatorships of Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea on why democracy does not work?

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | July 8, 2024 · 7:13 am

Can religion be an addiction?

Times of uncertainty and rapid social and economic change provide fertile ground for a proliferation of religious and political cults offering „easy solutions“ for deeper underlying issues.

In a positive sense religion can offer sanctuary for like-minded people providing a framework of meaning in a chaotic world. Codes of behavior are offered as a means of salvation from an often unbearable life in the here and now.

It becomes unhealthy where it turns into an addiction characterized by compulsive behaviors and the inability to perceive or discuss any other perspective or alternative.

Adherents might engage in activities to the point where it disrupts their daily life, relationships, work and responsibilities – common to all addictions.

It becomes a coping mechanism, deflecting an underlying past trauma, loss or hurt. Sect and cult leaders are particularly successful in recruiting individuals going through a particularly vulnerable period in their life.

Control and Isolation

The control mechanisms of a cult can be on a very subtle emotional level. Once the member has gone all-in by severing long-term relationships, it becomes very difficult to return to the old life. Few people will admit to having made a mistake or having made the wrong decision after sacrificing the best years of their life and donated all their money to the “movement” or “cause.” We are hard-wired as social beings and it gets very difficult to leave “the cult family”. Those who leave are vilified as traitors to the cause, threatened and in extreme cases harmed physically and mentally.

Group-Think, Lies and Deception

Once in the cult or religious movement you are part of the „group-think bubble“ . Members expressing the faintest doubts or engaging in a critical discourse about the objectives of the movement or the leader are shamed, coerced and brought into line. They will be told that they are “in their ego”, have sinned or strayed from the path. They will be playing on a core fear of most humans – the fear of being excommunicated from the safety of the tribe.

Financial Exploitation

A common denominator of all cults is the financial exploitation of their members. They will be asked to contribute membership fees, provide funds for a new temple, pay for the private jet or the legal fees of the cult leader. At times members would have to donate all their assets to the movement for “the common good” as a sign of their commitment and loyalty. A small portion might be channeled to real charities as a marketing ploy while the major portion will be kept by the cult leader for his personal needs.

Exploitation of vulnerabilities

The political cult and charismatic leader at its head will ensnare you if you haven’t dealt with your shadows such as anger and fear or transmuted a traumatic experience.

Addiction to a belief has to be treated like any other addiction. First and forement there is the need for an honest recognition and acceptance of the problem. What lifestyle changes, support groups and therapy are necessary? What would my life look like without the addiction? What freedoms would I be enjoying? How can I prevent relapse and find supportive friends with a higher vibrational energy?

If you are drawn to a charismatic leader with a hate-filled, and vindictive messaging, ask yourself: “What anger within me is he tapping into? What can I positively change in my life now, instead of placing my hopes in the “political messiah.”?

Walking the path of your highest calling in personal freedom and liberty is foundational to fulfilling your soul destiny and living a life of bliss. You can pick and learn from the gems and wisdom of many teachers past and present. But if you should run into that religion, sect or cult offering the one and only perfect solution, it might just sound too good to be true.

Experiential spirituality

While experiential spirituality can exist within the context of organized religions, it transcends traditional religious boundaries of what to believe, and how to behave. There is a direct personal experience of the divine, through a sacred, or transcendent state of consciousness, and cannot be defined.

Practices closely associated with experiential spirituality include meditation, prayer, music, contemplating sacred art, and deepwalking pilgrimages.

On the path of experiential spirituality, you are never truly done. You continuously grow, make mistakes, learn, and discover along the way. Rather than adhering to a fixed moral code, you develop an intuitive situational awareness that guides you toward higher or lower vibrational paths.

Once on the journey, it fosters a profound sense of connection with the cosmic order and the essence of life, kindling a deeper feeling of peace, love, and interconnectedness that transcend doctrine or belief.

In the words of 13th-century Mystic Meister Eckart:

“The knower and the known are one. Simple people imagine that they should see God as if he stood there and they here. This is not so. God and I, we are one in knowledge.”

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.

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by | July 1, 2024 · 10:33 am

AI and social media: A generational challenge

Every era faces different challenges, defined by the changing landscapes of society, technology, and geopolitical events, and we have not even begun to understand the current impact of social media and Artificial Intelligence (AI) on mental health and social cohesion.

It was telling that in the U.S. presidential debate, both candidates not only made a devastatingly poor impression but that one of the biggest challenges of our time such as the impact of social media and AI on every facet of our lives was not even mentioned.

The pervasive effect of social media on mental health

Studies have shown an alarming increase in suicide rates, especially among teenage girls in recent years coinciding with the widespread adoption of social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Girls are at greater risk of cyberbullying, facilitating bullying behavior that can be relentless and pervasive. Unrealistic beauty standards are perpetuated, leading to body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem.

Among teenage boys, the dangers of addiction to online gaming and porn are leading to growing isolation and a breakdown in social skills.

AI is changing our world

We are just at the cusp of rapid technological changes triggered by AI with positive as well as negative effects. The technology is already proving to be most effective in medicine. At the Institute of Cancer Research, for example, researchers have developed a unique canSAR database that can combine patients’ clinical and genetic data with independent chemistry, biology, patient, and disease information. It i likely to revolutionize transportation with self-driving cars, buses, and drones.

But many jobs, especially those involving routine and repetitive tasks, are at risk of being automated. Sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and retail are particularly vulnerable to automation, potentially leading to significant job losses. The rapid pace of AI development requires workers to continuously update their skills, which can be challenging for many.

The rapid technological changes we are seeing inevitably lead to a growing gap between the cultural and mental capacities of societies to adapt to these changes and the legal frameworks to prevent the abuse of such technology. It creates fear and anxiety among those individuals who have particular difficulty in adapting to changes.

The use of AI and other new technologies have to be designed in ways that respect human rights, privacy, and autonomy, and do not dehumanize users. Human capabilities need to be augmented rather than replacing the human touch in critical areas like customer service, healthcare, and creative fields.

A holistic approach needs to be made recognizing and valuing the unique identity, experiences, and needs of each person rather than treating them as anonymous entities. Every individual has different
emotional, psychological, and social needs.

With all our senses becoming over-stimulated by technology and threatening our mental and physical well-being it becomes all the more essential to reconnect with nature and our primal roots and senses.

Taking time out for a deep walk in nature is becoming a crucial pillar of survival in the digital world. Here are just some ways how we can rehumanize our senses:

Immersing in the green and blue spaces

Immersing yourself in the blue and green spaces of natural landscapes such as forests, mountains, oceans, and streams plays a major part in reducing freeze, flight and fight stress hormones such as cortisol. Auditory engagement with natural sounds such as the rustling of leaves, flowing water and birdsong contrast with the constant noise of an urban environment, providing a peaceful respite to help clear the mind.

Sensory Stimulation

The clean, fresh air of natural environments, free from pollutants and artificial smells, invigorates and refreshes your senses with the diverse scents from natural herbs, flowers and trees. They can positively evoke memories and emotions. Feeling and touching natural elements such as a tree, rock, sand or water provides direct physical connection with the natural world and the present moment.

Deep walking

Walking in nature is one of the most beneficial and underestimated ways of boosting your immune system, and preventing cardiovascular and metabolic disease. At the same time, exposure to sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D which is essential for bone health and overall mental well-being. Walking less than 5,000 steps per day is generally considered to be a sedentary lifestyle. Anything between 8,000 and 10,000 steps a day will significantly improve your health.

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.

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by | June 24, 2024 · 4:57 pm

Hardened body, hardened mind

After spending several weeks on my annual pilgrimage retreat along the Camino in northwestern Spain, I have had ample time to reflect on some pressing issues affecting our collective state of mind. I’m increasingly concerned about humanity’s tendency to retreat into tribal bubbles, becoming addicted to fixed concepts and thoughts.

Here is my theory on why the world is at real risk of tipping back into authoritarianism, intolerance, and the cult-like idealization of the “strongman” leader.

Social media thrives on toxic culture

We live in an age where any person in a dark cellar with a deranged mind can get millions of views by posting the most outlandish conspiracy theories, extremism, and anger. There are no real filters or control mechanisms in place to prevent the algorithms from blocking obviously false, distorted, and hateful information. And, there are no legal consequences for those responsible.

A preoccupation with fear, anxiety, and negativity will inevitably impact your mental and physical health. The eyes, brain, and spinal cord are intricately connected through the central nervous system (CNS), facilitating vision, sensory processing, and motor control.

The interconnection of body and mind

The eyes capture visual information and convert it into electrical signals. The optic nerve then transmits these signals to the brain which processes and interprets this information, coordinating with other sensory inputs and cognitive functions The spinal cord transmits these motor commands from the brain to the eyes and other body parts, integrating visual information to coordinate body movements.

Stress starts with negative thought

Stress hormones responsible for flight, fight, and freeze responses of the body are triggered by chronic negative thoughts. Constant worry, fear, and tension will inevitably negatively impact your daily functioning and decision-making. In extreme cases, it leads to depression, hopelessness, and loss of self-esteem.

People preoccupied with negative thoughts may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as overeating, smoking, substance abuse, or addiction to simplistic thoughts and concepts to numb their emotional pain.

Cognitive distortions, such as catastrophizing (expecting the worst), overgeneralization (viewing a single negative event as a never-ending pattern), and black-and-white thinking (seeing things as all good or all bad).

It is an open door for cult leaders, and extremist political movements offering simple solutions for complex global problems.

What is the antidote?

You have the power to make lifestyle choices, that determine whether you become a tool in the hands of manipulators or take back control over your own mental and physical health. Here are some tips:

  • What you feed your brain with that you become. Monitor your time spent on social media and the consumption of negative news.
  • Physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help mitigate the effects of stress and improve your overall feeling of well-being.
  • How are you talking to yourself? Are your thoughts mainly negative or positive?
  • Mindfulness practices including meditation, deep walking, yoga, tai chi, qi gong reduce the impact of negative thinking and improve awareness. These exercises also impact your body posture and how you feel about yourself.
  • Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help identify negative thought patterns.
  • Choose your friends wisely. Don’t waste your time arguing with people addicted to fixed concepts and illusions. Positively-minded and supportive friends, family, and community make all the difference.

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.

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