empathy is how one subjective reality learns to connect with other subjective realities.
~csr
Friday, January 17, 2025
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Embracing the Present
As I age, I've come to realize that mortality is increasingly present. Physical changes and health issues have become more pronounced, making me aware that life's milestones are largely behind me.
I've started to notice 'last times' – final experiences that mark the end of an era. Initially scarce, these moments now accelerate. On a deeper level, I'm grappling with the anticipation of loss – mourning life's passing while still immersed in it.
This paradox is profound: I'm longing for life's moments while simultaneously mourning their passage, when I should be embracing the present.
~csr
move on
if you feel tension from
where does it come?
if there is resistance
then where is it from?
don’t seek to engage it
it’s not best that you run
but rather acknowledge,
continue,
move on
~csr
defining
morning light waves
rose of sharon sways
blending with subtle circular motions
a branch of botanical aikido
in the distance…
a chainsaw, cutting, defining
~csr
profound
i see words' pull
its snag on past
i feel its tug
like thick molass
in contrast,
there's the flow,
you see
it's current,
yes and yes
it's present,
indistinguishable
and yet
profound
~csr
where are my words?
some sleeping
some slumber
while others they travel
some roaming
some searching
while others they swim
some swirl
some eddy
while circling downward
some laughing
some joking
they cackle they jest
some steeping
some brewing
they darken with flavor
where are my words?
~csr
another duration
another duration…
gray and withering.
where once passion’s insolence sprang!
so late in season! ...
if only to crave.
another turning…
over again inside.
where now dense roots
mingled throughout sinew and bone
inflict me once more.
unaccompanied…
conjuring fragrant fanatical flowers!
irrational bouquets!
in rumination.
see..
how they sway in ardent breezes...
how they dance to rhythms of raindrops... ... ...
another duration.
~csr
firstly of yourself
may you work through things swiftly but more importantly, wholly and completely.
to me... It seems like it must all be sifted and weighed somehow before i can move past it...
we are however armed with an armor that has been cast in years and forged in fires of heartache.
we know this pain and therefore we know empathy.
a gift not all possess
i will meet you in the place paved in pessimisms under foot... And lit by the candles of optimisms overhead...
be well
be forgiving firstly of yourself
~csr
finding my might
arduous not cozy
winding not straight
changing not stable
an altering state
tough and not soothing
twisting not clear
metamorphic life-changing
zigzagging through fear
enduring the darkness,
resisting the light
embracing my weakness
and finding my might
~csr
flourishing
embracing
present moment,
clarity stillness.
facing obstinacy,
breathe,
pause,
listen.
seeking understanding,
a river flowing
around a rock.
empathy
compassion,
creating
harmonious exchange.
word’s gentle breeze,
soft
non-confrontational.
focus
issues,
not persons,
a gardener tending soil,
not leaf.
dance of dialogue,
flexibility
grace.
embracing paradox
differing views,
humility
openness,
learning,
a student
of the universe.
conversations
peaceful forest,
understanding
growth
flourishing.
~csr
being
stillness
calm surface,
reflecting
present
without
distortion
reaction,
revealing
beauty
'not being' in turmoil,
, 'not being' controlled,
, 'not being' defined
inner peace,
liberation,
harmony
arisen
embracing
simplicity
being.
~csr
in the darkness
i feel like a crushed seed,
buried dark, deep in the Earth.
dry, hard, crusted over.
yet
down beneath,
there's a tiny spark of life
in my core.
so i am pushing,
i’m trying.
i’m trying to force life
to burst the shell and reach up,
out of the earth, to reach the air,
the sun, the sky,
the stars.
there’s more space in this universe
than substance,
at least that we can see.
and so… if
you're near some of that substance,
touch it, hold it, embrace it.
Because it's just a flash of light Iin the darkness.
~csr
fragile way.
beauty lies beyond capture,
though we chase moments, freezing frames.
a brush can interpret, but not replace.
descriptions fall short, unable to evoke.
subjectivity filtered,
by experience and bias.
yet, with this interpretation, there is a beauty.
for in the brushstrokes, words, and frames,
an interpretation remains.
not ‘the truth’, yet a truth in its own,
fragile way.
~csr
The Erosion of Trust: How the Pursuit of Profit is Undermining Our Humanity
In recent years, we've witnessed a disturbing trend: the erosion of trust in institutions, particularly news outlets and social media. This decline is not only alarming but also has far-reaching consequences for our society.
The Biased Moderation of Truth
At the heart of this issue lies the biased moderation of truth. Social media platforms, tasked with regulating the vast amounts of content on their sites, often rely on algorithms and human moderators to make decisions about what information to promote and what to suppress. However, these decisions are frequently influenced by biases, resulting in the disproportionate restriction of marginalized voices and the amplification of dominant narratives.
The recent BBC research finding that Facebook inhibits Palestinian news but boosts Israel's news is a stark example of this phenomenon. This disparity in content moderation raises concerns about censorship, the suppression of dissenting voices, and the perpetuation of echo chambers.
The Commodification of Humanity
The erosion of trust is not only a result of biased moderation but also a symptom of a larger issue: the commodification of humanity. Our personal data, relationships, and even our welfare and healthcare have become mere commodities to be exploited for profit.
The pursuit of profit and growth has become the primary driver of our society, often at the expense of our humanity. We're reduced to mere consumers, our worth measured by our purchasing power and our ability to generate revenue.
Reclaiming Our Humanity
To combat these issues, it's essential that we demand more from our news sources, support independent media outlets, and promote media literacy. We must also recognize the value of nuanced, empathetic public discourse and strive for a more compassionate, equitable, and just world.
Ultimately, our collective future depends on our ability to reclaim our humanity, redefine what we value, and prioritize the well-being of people and the planet over profit and growth. We must recognize that our worth extends far beyond our economic value and that our humanity is not for sale.
To Improve
when we compromise
our character
in order to advance
an aspect of our lives,
we inadvertently
misplace
who we are,
ultimately losing
that which we sought
to improve.
~csr
The Value of Integrity in a Compromising World
In today's fast-paced, goal-oriented society, compromises are often made in pursuit of success or convenience. But what are the consequences of such compromises on our values and character? How do we balance our ambitions with our principles?
The Paradox of Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is highly valued in various aspects of life, such as craftsmanship or professional services. However, when it comes to personal character and integrity, this attention to detail may be less pronounced. This disparity raises important questions about our priorities.
The Power of Small Choices
Everyday choices, no matter how small, contribute to our personal growth and shape our character. Recognizing these patterns can help us make more informed decisions.
Living in the Present Moment
As we reflect on our choices and priorities, it's essential to remember that the only true moment is the present. The past is gone, and the future is uncertain. Yet, it's easy to get caught up in guilt over past mistakes or anxiety about future uncertainties. By acknowledging the power of the present moment, we can break free from the crippling effects of past regrets and future fears.
Reflections and Questions
As we consider the importance of integrity, character, and personal growth, we may want to ask ourselves:
• What are the little compromises we make, and how do they impact our sense of self and integrity?
• How can we cultivate a stronger sense of self and integrity in our daily lives?
• What does it mean to stay true to ourselves, and how can we balance our ambitions with our principles?
• How can we approach our mistakes and imperfections with kindness and compassion, rather than shame and guilt?
Commandeering God
The motivations behind commandeering a religion or belief system can be complex and varied, but here are some common driving forces:
Political Power and Control
1. Legitimization: Leaders or groups may co-opt a religion to legitimize their authority, policies, or actions.
2. Social control: By manipulating religious teachings, those in power can influence public opinion, suppress dissent, and maintain social order.
Ideological Agenda
1. Promoting extremism: Radical groups may hijack a religion to promote their extremist ideologies, often using selective interpretations or distorted teachings.
2. Cultural nationalism: Religious beliefs can be co-opted to promote a particular cultural or national identity, often at the expense of minority groups.
Economic Interests
1. Resource exploitation: Religious leaders or groups may be influenced or coerced into supporting policies that allow for the exploitation of natural resources, often harming indigenous communities or the environment.
2. Financial gain: Some individuals or groups may use religion as a means to accumulate wealth, power, or influence.
Psychological and Emotional Factors
1. Fear and insecurity: In times of uncertainty or crisis, people may turn to religion as a source of comfort and security. Leaders may exploit these emotions to further their own agendas.
2. Sense of belonging: Religion can provide a sense of community and belonging. Those who feel marginalized or disenfranchised may be more susceptible to extremist or distorted interpretations of a religion.
Historical and Cultural Context
1. Colonialism and imperialism: The legacy of colonialism and imperialism has often involved the co-opting of indigenous religions or the imposition of foreign belief systems.
2. Cultural exchange and syncretism: The blending of different cultural and religious traditions can sometimes lead to the distortion or co-opting of original beliefs.
These motivations can interact with each other in complex ways, leading to the commandeering of religions or belief systems.
To counterbalance the mentality that leads to the commandeering of religions or belief systems, consider the following little-known strategies:
Education and Critical Thinking
1. Media literacy: Teach people to critically evaluate information, identify biases, and recognize propaganda techniques.
2. Interfaith dialogue: Encourage open discussions between people from different religious backgrounds to foster understanding and empathy.
3. Critical pedagogy: Implement educational approaches that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and nuanced understanding of complex issues.
Empathy and Compassion
1. Perspective-taking exercises: Engage people in activities that help them see things from others' points of view, promoting empathy and understanding.
2. Storytelling: Share personal stories and experiences that highlight the human impact of extremist ideologies and the importance of compassion.
3. Mindfulness and self-reflection: Encourage individuals to cultivate mindfulness and self-reflection, helping them recognize and challenge their own biases and assumptions.
Community Building and Social Cohesion
1. Intergenerational programs: Develop initiatives that bring people of different ages and backgrounds together, fostering a sense of community and social connection.
2. Inclusive public spaces: Create public spaces that promote social interaction, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging among people from diverse backgrounds.
3. Community-based initiatives: Support community-led projects that address social and economic issues, promoting collective action and social cohesion.
Addressing Socio-Economic Factors
1. Economic empowerment: Implement initiatives that address poverty, inequality, and social injustice, reducing the appeal of extremist ideologies.
2. Access to education and healthcare: Ensure that all individuals have access to quality education and healthcare, reducing feelings of frustration and disenfranchisement.
3. Social safety nets: Establish social safety nets that provide support for vulnerable populations, reducing the likelihood of radicalization.
Technology and Media
1. Counter-narratives: Develop and disseminate counter-narratives that challenge extremist ideologies and promote inclusive, compassionate values.
2. Social media literacy: Educate people on how to critically evaluate online information, identify biases, and recognize propaganda techniques.
3. Inclusive media representation: Promote diverse, inclusive representation in media, challenging stereotypes and biases that can contribute to radicalization.
While these strategies can help counterbalance extremist mentalities, it's essential to recognize that eradicating these ideologies entirely is a complex, ongoing challenge.
We’ve summarized the key motivations behind the commandeering of religions or belief systems, as well as some strategies to counterbalance extremist mentalities.
To further emphasize the importance of these strategies, consider the following:
1. Intersectionality: Many of these strategies intersect and reinforce one another. For example, education and critical thinking can help individuals develop empathy and compassion.
2. Contextual understanding: It's essential to understand the historical, cultural, and social contexts in which extremist ideologies emerge and spread.
3. Grassroots initiatives: Community-based initiatives and grassroots movements can be particularly effective in promoting social cohesion, empathy, and inclusivity.
4. Counter-narratives: Developing and disseminating counter-narratives that challenge extremist ideologies can help to reduce their appeal and promote more inclusive, compassionate values.
5. Education and awareness: Raising awareness about the dangers of extremist ideologies and the importance of empathy, compassion, and inclusivity can help to prevent radicalization.
In acknowledging the complexity of these issues and working together to implement these strategies, we can create a more just, compassionate, and inclusive world.
what if
what if our brokenness
was not something to be feared
or hidden,
but rather
something to be acknowledged
and transformed?
what if,
instead of reinforcing the cracks
and fissures that divide us,
we chose to sit
together in silence
and appreciate
the beauty in our imperfections?
what if,
in embracing our own vulnerability,
we discovered a new way of living
in harmony with ourselves,
each other,
and the planet?
what if?
~csr
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