Grieving, Self-Care, Learning & Gratitude
When we experience loss whether it is the death of a loved one or the loss of an election, grieving includes disbelief and anger in addition to sadness and a sense of abandonment. In order to move on, we must let grief take its natural course. Then we must let go and get on with living in a new reality.
We must also take care of our wounded heart. We should get sufficient rest and nourishment, take time for ourselves in reading and reflection and should stay in touch with family and friends. Furthermore, we should engage in soul-searching and analysis so that we learn as much as possible from the situation for the sake of future engagement. We then should apply our lessons by modifying our behavior and actions in future situations and relationships.
Finally, we should take comfort by experiencing deep gratitude for the gift of life itself and for our unique life as it unfolds in mystery and perfection.
In the case of yesterday’s midterm US elections, some of us, myself included, are grieving. I can’t believe that the rout was so bad. I am angry that certain personalities now have even more power. I am sad that millions of people could be harmed by new policies, especially women, the elderly, students, the poor, the middle class, gays and immigrants. I feel a strange sense of forlornness. What are your emotions?
How am I to take care of my wounded heart in this situation? I will make sure that I get enough rest and eat healthy food. I will do some reading related to my work and spiritual life. I will have conversations with my spouse about what is going on. She has already sent me an article from the New Yorker that cheered me up. How will you care for yourself?
In terms of soul-searching and analysis, I am reading about the election and what we may face over the next two years. I am deciding how I will be more engaged as a citizen from the local to national levels. I will submit Op Ed pieces, blog posts and articles, contact my representatives regarding issues, sign petitions, donate to candidates and NGOs, speak with my students and colleagues and engage in dialogue with people of other points of view. I will focus especially on supporting climate chaos mitigation and women’s empowerment but also on promoting socio-economic justice, cultural and religious tolerance and participatory governance. How will you go about your soul-searching?
Finally, I am comforted by deep gratitude for life itself, for my life, for family, friends and colleagues, opportunities for engagement and service, for health and for my spiritual practice. Please consider making a list of what you are grateful for.
May everyone everywhere realize the Great Happiness that embraces both the ups and the downs of living with Yes!