DIFFERENT
It’s been a bizarre year so far, hasn’t it? All over the world, things are different and all that has been hidden in the dark for so long seems to be coming to light.
Which brings changes in many ways. I’m hearing from individuals that they feel adrift, alone, more than a bit lost. And it makes sense, doesn’t it? When nothing is as it was and the present is shifting in ways we never expected, the tendency is to go inwards, to isolate, to hide under the covers. It is only human. Fear, long used as a motivator, has become almost paralyzing for most, and so we keep ourselves away from other people, assuming we are the only ones who feel this way.
This is likely the opposite of what we need both individually and for this world of ours. For a long time, conforming has been perceived as the path to being safe. If you can just somehow fit the round peg of your soul into the square boxes those in power prefer we be in, then all will be well and you’ll be taken care of by your spouse, your community, your government, your employer, your healthcare policy. Your children will be safe in the education system, as long as you pay your taxes and your fees. All will be well if you just do what you’re told. The Disney movies we all have watched multiple times promised this, as do many of our houses of worship. The patriarchy, colonization and our modern financial system have long promised safety and care in exchange for cooperation – though obedience might be the better word.
But it has become perfectly clear, on so many levels, that this is patently untrue. From genocide in the Middle East to the eruption of children being sexually assaulted in schools here in South Africa to all the rapid-fire changes in the very fabric of the United States – a very short list of examples, our world is showing her ugly side, hidden from view for so long. None of it is new, it’s just being seen and felt for what it’s always been.
And it is altering us in so many ways. What once brought comfort and solace likely doesn’t anymore – and not just because you may not be able to purchase your favourite binging chocolates! As we isolate, we tear apart the fabric of our world as it has been, which can feel devastating. Given all that is reordering itself, we will likely need to find new ways to care for ourselves, for our loved ones and for all humans. We are being called to envision a wholly new existence for us all.
I am convinced that humans and the planet itself need each of us to show up right now as our own unique entities. Fully ourselves, no holds barred, light fully shining, embracing our own individual spirits. I wonder if in some way, this feeling different could actually unite us, if it could begin to form community in an entirely new way of gathering. While social media certainly has its issues, the world wide web is definitely one structure for connecting, used well. Video streaming is another. We have ways to find each other, to find solace in each other’s stories and companionship, and to be reminded that we are truly never alone.
I want to play with this, to create an oasis of refuge and peace where people can learn simple tools for self-care in these times, join in a guided meditation I’ll intuit and create hope together. Anything is possible, right?
And so the Solace of Sovereignty circle has been born.
Starting 12 April, we will begin to gather twice a month via Zoom for an hour or more. The circle is freely offered, and you are welcome to invite others to join us. For the link, just email me with SOS in the subject line, or whatsapp +27 (064) 778-4556 to be added to the notification group.
I am really looking forward to connecting with you, and to seeing what magic we weave together. The possibilities are endless, aren’t they?
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