@dannyboy I'd like for those who post in this thread to please read the first two posts you made which was the intention of the thread i.e., to find an evolved way forward.
Regarding the philosophy of the Stoics that you wrote about in the first post. It sounds very close to the buddhists. When we meditate, Buddhist style, we focus on how the world is, the energy of the world, of our thoughts, of everything we sense. We aim to train our minds to see everything as ephemeral (constantly changing), so we hold onto nothing but our own inner peace while meditating. If we focus on our senses, rather than the social media posts we've read, the we find ourselves in a state of peace. The interesting result is that not only are meditating people more peaceful, less fearful, but they are also more awake. Their reactions are quicker. They see more of what is happening in this world and around them as they drive their cars or ride their bikes. Their reflexes are faster then people who are nervous and caught up in social media fear and propaganda.
There are well over 3000 peer reviewed studies on the impact of regular meditation on people's health and well being. It affects every organ system in the body. Also, if you are in extreme physical pain, meditation works better than morphine.
If we are to move foward and elevate from what has happened, the griping has to shift to finding joy and a light-filled way forward that we create. Griping is a coward's way of handling difficulties. Complain and blame others, then curl up in a ball and hide away.
The human psyche's default is anger and fear. That is how our species survived the caveman days. It is meant for real bodily danger, not psychological intimidation. Dannyboy, you are showing people another way.
@jeanne-mayell Bless you for this! I used the Calm app to meditate for a long while, and while I still have the ultra-premium Calm version that includes everything (because they had a calm schools initiative that let me sign up for a permanent subscription for free) I have moved over to the Apple Fitness + meditations because they have resonated with me a little more. If you are an Apple Fitness + subscriber (and if you're not, the $9.99 a month is well worth it for the thousands of meditations, workouts, and programs they've built in just four years) I've found all of the trainers who lead those to be light bringers in their own way. I will go a week or two between doing them regularly and toward the end of those lulls, I find myself craving the quiet. It's helped me get better at Jeanne's Read the Future nights as well. I'm going to make this a priority to do every day going forward. You can choose between 5, 10, and 20 minute guided meditations which may help me remember that even if I don't have time for a 20, I can find 5 minutes in my day. It's a choice I can consciously make!
@dannyboy Thanks for this information. I've been searching and finding free e-subscriptions like Smithsonian, Harvard, and non-political podcasts that will keep me updated on progress in science, medicine, philosophy, health and history. Also, I am finding a wide range podcasts that I can listen to while on my treadmill. I've stopped watching the main stream media, period. Feeling more hopeful already and would welcome any other suggestions from anyone out there!
I Study Guys Like Trump. There’s a Reason They Keep Winning. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/08/opinion/republicans-democrats-trump.html?unlocked_article_code=1.YU4.MIyz.0CMXHdYkxIK0
This is helpful. And it may be a part of the path forward.
@kathleen I was having trouble finding podcasts that I was interested in that were long form storytelling or deep dives to educate myself. Let me suggest joining your local library and downloading the Libby app! I now power through around 10 books a month listening to them while I am driving or doing chores, etc. not only is it a good escape, you support your local library while doing so!
I have also used my digital library card to use sites like Coursera to learn a new skill, etc. I’m a big fan of libraries over here!
I Study Guys Like Trump. There’s a Reason They Keep Winning. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/08/opinion/republicans-democrats-trump.html?unlocked_article_code=1.YU4.MIyz.0CMXHdYkxIK0
This is helpful. And it may be a part of the path forward.
Thank you for the link to article!
I've been listening to Jack Kornfield's recent and free podcast on my Amazon app, and have found it to be a balm for the angry, fearful and helpless feelings that I've had since the election. He's a western Buddhist monk, has written many books and is the co-founder of Insight Meditation Society.
Liz-OLetsgo what a wonderful post to read, than you so much for choosing to join our community and for such a needed post right now. Thank you! You have no idea how nice it is to read your words...unless you do and that is why you posted. haha