Choosing Light in Dark Times

Choosing Light in Dark Times

At Seeing Goodness, we are saddened by the recent assassination attempt against a presidential candidate. This act of violence strikes at the heart of our democratic values and peaceful discourse.

In these challenging times, we must recommit to recognizing and nurturing the good in our world and each other. America is at its best when we see the goodness in others, even those with whom we disagree. Our strength lies not in uniformity of thought, but in our ability to come together despite our differences.

As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wisely said, "Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars." We invite everyone to take a moment of silence for all those injured, killed, traumatized, or affected by this and other senseless acts of violence.

We also invite you to continue choosing light:  to see the humanity in one another, to listen deeply, to seek understanding, and finding - co-creating - common ground. As Mahatma Gandhi reminded us, "An eye for an eye only ends up making the world blind." Let us all open our eyes and ears to the goodness that surrounds us, even in challenging times.

We are invited to consider:

• Cultivating the practice of "seeing the goodness" in others, especially those with whom we disagree
  
  
• Developing the skills of seeking out and acknowledging acts of kindness in our communities (Bonus! Science has proven that seeing the goodness in others is a healthy for our wellbeing, as well) 
  
  
• Engaging in respectful dialogue with those holding different views, approaching conversations with an open heart and a willingness to recognize good intentions
  
  
• Sharing stories of goodness to inspire others and to counterbalance rampant negativity. Shifting our focus to what a fully loving, respectful, and kind world could be
  
  
• Adopting individual and communal mindfulness, meditation, or prayer practices that nourish peace
  
  
• Recognizing that goodness manifests itself across diverse cultures, beliefs, and ideologies. It's a universal human quality, not owned by any single system
  
  
• Embracing gratitude practices to enhance awareness of the goodness around and within us

Remember that building bridges often starts with simple, joyful interactions and shared moments of play, but it extends to our private thoughts as well. Our thoughts about others matter profoundly, even when we're alone or with our closest peers. If we aspire to create a world of kindness, mutual respect, and love, we must try to cultivate these qualities in our minds at all times. The way we think about and speak of others shapes our actions and, ultimately, our world. Practicing self-care, spending time in nature, engaging in playful activities, and cultivating forgiveness are critical components of healthy relationships, including with ourselves. Balancing this self-nurturing with intentional service to others, and maintaining respectful thoughts about all people, creates a foundation for personal well-being, joyful connections, and genuine community bonds.

Every act of kindness, every moment of understanding, and every effort to see the good in others contributes to a more compassionate and connected world. These actions help create a tapestry of belonging where all people feel valued and included.

By focusing on the good, we strengthen our resolve to address challenges constructively and compassionately. We encourage daily reflection on your own goodness and the goodness you've received, acknowledging the multidirectional flow of compassion and love. Take special note of the deeds you've set in motion that once seemed well beyond your reach. With streamlined intentions and focused attention, we can achieve far more than we ever imagined possible.

Let us keep our focus on the type of world we want to create - one of kindness, mutual respect, and love. You are an integral part of this positive change. Our thoughts and the words we choose matter profoundly - even when we're among those who share our views. By consciously cultivating respectful thoughts and speech about all people, we contribute to a more understanding and compassionate world. In seeing goodness – in others and in ourselves – we illuminate the path to a brighter future for all.

Thank you for being a beacon of goodness and love in our world!

In friendship, warmth, and hope,
-- Connie and our Seeing Goodness friends

We'd love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on creating a more peaceful and connected society? Do you have ideas, experiences, or practices that have helped you foster goodness in your community? Please share your insights and solutions in the comments below (on the blog or in social media). We're also working on a companion post, Everyday Practices for a More Compassionate World.

Your voice is important, and your ideas could inspire others on their journey of seeing goodness. Let's continue this conversation and build a community of positive change together.

We'd also love for you to be part of our community.
Here's how you can Connect With Us:

Website:  Say hello through our website where we will announce our gatherings

       Tuesday Evenings:
  •  Join our Zoom gatherings at 8 PM ET (times may vary; we'll keep you updated)

  • Clubhouse:  On some Tuesdays, find us on the Seeing Goodness "house" for audio discussions. (Sometimes we're on both platforms at once.)

  •  Facebook: Connect with us in the Seeing Goodness Community
On our late-to-the-dance Facebook page:  Seeing Goodness Facebook page

  •  Instagram: @Seeing.Goodness or Seeing.Goodness on Instagram

Coming This Fall:  Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MSBR) Courses 
I'll be offering courses both online and in person. This eight-week program, developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, has helped over 25,000 people globally live with greater mindfulness and contentment. Stay tuned for more details!

Recommended Resource:  For a beautiful meditation focused on the upcoming election, check out Pause Breathe Reflect's Michael O'Brien's meditation found at Pause Breathe Reflect Sangha's Election 2024 Meditation on YouTube or on his app on the Apple Store or Google Play. 

May we light the world with the peace and infinite love already seeded within us. The world desperately needs all the light, goodness and love we have to share.

Thank you for continuing to be a bright beacon of light and love in our world! Together, we can help to illuminate a path to a more compassionate and connected future.