REFLECTIONS ON THE CORONAVIRUS – Day 56 –
For the first time in my life, I had an experience of oneness with all of humanity. And, it took a worldwide pandemic. Realizing people around the world were impacted by Covid-19, sparked within me a feeling of connection, a sense of being part of the global community. I’m aware countless others have shared a similar experience.
I’ve also read how numerous scientists from many countries are coming together to create a global collaboration to focus on this single topic. They’ve set aside their other research for now. I’ve heard lots of heartwarming stories about how folks are rising up, demonstrating caring and generosity, and making a difference.
At the same time, I’m observing a country divided, with tensions running high on both sides. I guess it makes sense. Our lives are being disrupted by a worldwide pandemic. Illnesses and death counts have been rising, non-essential businesses have shut down, and most of us have been in lock down. A major event such as this that sweeps into our lives is sure to bring both gifts and opportunities and adversity and challenge. It impacts us on individual and collective levels.
On one hand, the situation offers us invitation to rally together as a people, respond collectively, and work toward strengthening the health of our denizens and the economic well-being of our country. On the other, the weight of the stress due to Covid-19 threatens to exacerbate existing problems, highlight our nation’s weaknesses, and topple societal structures that are no longer robust.
In addition to the usual dividing lines—political, economic, racial, etc.—people are taking strong positions regarding a response to the pandemic. There are those who are taking Covid-19 seriously and supporting stringent precautions. Others are worried about the expansion of authoritarian government policies. Numerous people are very concerned with impending economic devastation. Many are alarmed by the deep-seated racism and injustice this pandemic is revealing. There is a large group who is strongly against vaccines and another who sees a vaccine as THE answer to our current challenge.
Like traditional Read Full Report discount cialis, it also contains slidenafil citrate and works in combination with stem cell therapy to show an enhanced effect of the treatment.For me, I no more wish to take sides and perpetuate divisiveness, than I wish to bury my head in the sand until the virus goes away. What I want to do is use my voice and actions for inspiring and cultivating light and unity. I’ve been deliberating for a few weeks on how to do that.
Then I came back around to this teaching: Your inner world is primary and the outer world is but a reflection of the inner.
When I remembered this bit of wisdom, I sighed, pulled my attention away from the outer world that appears divided, and looked within. I reminded myself everything out there is neutral and we each choose what meaning to assign. I asked myself: Where are you divided? Where are you judging yourself or others? Where are you holding a grievance, grudge, or self-righteous position? What meaning have you assigned the pandemic?
What did I find? One side of my ego wants desperately to fit in, belong, and be accepted. It wants to be mainstream and normal. The other side of my ego wants greatly to stand out, be seen as unique and special, and find my distinct voice. It wants to be edgy and non-conformist. Here, I had discovered the real divide I felt compelled to heal—the inner one.
How do I heal it? I stop identifying with the false self and its two personalities. As soon as I recognize the ego, it no longer has any power or sway over me. I remember who I am.
