For me, the answer is my practice. Connecting in to the present moment through my body and breath serves me every time. Honoring the ranges of emotions through kirtan (love centered chanting/singing) has been so nourishing.
When things in this world of ours gets to be overwhelming and the doom sets in....
Stop. Here, Now. Breath. Notice what's happening. Are your thoughts really present? what stories are they saying? Are emotions surfacing? What do you notice in your body? Remember that everybody, including You, has unique gifts to offer this world. Instead of slinking back from the world, tap into your essence to see what you can offer. How do you want to be of service? The Sanskrit word Seva means self-less service, to offer your actions to something bigger. It can come in many forms, so do what feels right for you.
In Krishna Das's book "Chants of a Lifetime" he talks about when he left his guru in India. He asked Maharaji, his Guru, "How can I serve you?"
"If I told you, it wouldn't be service." Maharaji replied. So Krishna Das sings as his service. Some dance. Some make food for others, garden, create groups.
Whatever you do, be clear on the intention behind it.
A friend of mine posted this great quote. Perhaps you too will find it suiting in response to recent events.
"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." --Martin Luther King, Jr
In Service,
With Love
Namaste
Jess
