I’m on a steep learning curve. Because the world seems to have gone mad, I’m searching for answers to some difficult questions: ‘What's gone wrong in our world?’ and ‘What can we do to bring us to a better future?’ My search has brought some surprises - some of which seem more like secrets - but it has taken me to a place of hope. An increasing number of people have a vision of a better world and are coming together to find a way to get us there. I’m beginning to feel uplifted!
Secrets and Hope in Our Mad World
Early in 2017 I read George Marshall’s book ‘Don’t Even Think About It: Why We are Wired Not to Think About Climate Change’ and I decided I would think about it. And I would read about it. Then I would write about it.
I write as a 'non-expert' and I'm hoping that your comments will help me to see whether the insights I've
gained make sense, whether the conclusions stack up and whether it's realistic for me to start feeling
hopeful about the future .
May 27th - I'm going in for some 'mood boosting' next
Looking at the state of the world it would be easy to be depressed. I don't want my blog to need a health warning 'this blog could seriously damage your mental health'. Which is why I read 'Positive News' and 'Resurgence and Ecologist' whenever I need a pick-me-up.
When I met with a group of friends to study the International Society for Ecology and Culture's 'Roots of Change' readings we used to dip into the 'Hope Trove' and that's what I've continued to do. So,with thanks to Roots of Change, I'm going to boost my mood with -
'Forget that this task of planet-saving is not possible in the time required. Don't be put off by people who know what is not possible. Do what needs to be done, and check to see if it was impossible only after you are done.' (Paul Hawken) AND
'To be hopeful in bad times is based on the fact that human history is a history not only of cruelty but also of compassion, sacrifice, courage, kindness. What we choose to emphasize in this complex history will determine our lives. If we see only the worst, it destroys our capacity to do something.' Howard Zinn 'The Optimism of Uncertainty'
So, full of hope I now turn to 'How can we change direction'. (It's been suggested that I've been putting this difficult bit off which is probably true so am hoping for some helpful comments)
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