We are not the headlines!
How are you doing…really?
Are current events causing you despair, anger, outrage, numbness, overwhelm or all the above?
Our team recently had a heart-to-heart about the state of the world and tackled how we might make a difference in these scary times. We acknowledged that most of our media focuses on alarmist tactics and clickbait, hijacking our attention AND our empowerment. We discussed the fact that our economic system was founded on exploitation and individualism. We bemoaned the long erosion of democracy that has reached a tipping point today.
We were feeling worse by the minute...
As we spiraled, one member suddenly said “But, we are not the headlines!” The power of those words was palpable! We are not the headlines, and we are not the actions of institutions, politicians, or celebrities. We can choose, individually and collectively, to stand up to the forces that purposefully distract us and promote an “us vs. them” mentality, while encouraging feelings of helplessness.
This insight led us to an obvious question. “How do individuals make a difference when so many critically important issues need to be addressed immediately!?!” Our answer? Find a personal focus - one grounded in individual passion and energy.
Whether it’s reproductive rights, the climate crisis, racial justice, housing, gun violence…find what deeply motivates you. Then get involved! Research what leaders in your area are saying and, more importantly, what they are doing. Identify one or more groups you feel aligned with and get connected with them. And sustainability matters! Be sure to put the “power of habit” to work by committing time each week to take action, be it educating yourself, donating, communicating, volunteering, etc.
And, very importantly, disrupt isolation and overwhelm by talking, listening (really listening), and sharing how you are feeling…and NOT being the headlines. Together we can keep hope alive!
In solidarity,
The Activate Team
