Hold on to Hope

A lifelong optimist, I'm known for my glass half-full nature. I like life on the bright side, but I'm struggling these days. Our world seems hell-bent on self-destruction. Our government runs on a tug-of-war strategy, a game fueled by money, hate, and anger. Us versus them. Why is there so much hate? The news hurts my entire being. What can we do about the hate?

Connect 
Send a note to a loved one. Reach out to an old friend. Smile at a stranger. Spend some time in nature.

Use Your Voice 
Speak out about things that matter to you. Talk to your friends. Write to your government representatives, give money or time to organizations working for a better world.

Forgive Someone 
Whether they deserve it or not. Even if you never tell them. Forgive them, and feel the poison lose its potency.

Hating people who are hateful still makes you a hater. Speaking from experience, it is painful and unhelpful.

Hold on to Hope
Use your powers for good.

Does hope feel unreachable?

Try this. Slow your breathing. Connect with a feeling of safety and well-being in your body, a sense of calm and ease. It may help to picture people, animals, places, or memories that bring a sense of peace, tranquility, and rest. Notice how and where you feel this physically. Take slow breaths and let the images fall away and stay with sensations of quietude and calm.

Whether it’s for a few seconds or several minutes, try connecting with it throughout your day. Practice feeling it. With time, you’ll be able to access it more quickly and consistently when you need it most. This simple practice develops grounding, perspective, and resilience.

 As challenges arise, this peaceful foundation will help you respond in a way that aligns with who you are.

Sending love,

Afsi 

PS. Hit reply, and let me know what's helping you feel peace, hope, or sanity these days.