In an age with images of violence and the trauma of terrorism, how might a person maintain a sense of hope and not give in to the fear and depression that stalks members of our society? How does one nurture an attitude of peaceful expectation in the midst of financial challenges and demanding relationships?
Awareness of challenges facing society and individuals is necessary in spite of the surrounding and sometimes impending “bad news.” It is still, in my opinion, important to follow daily newscasts and keep abreast of family and neighbourhood happenings, while maintaining a cheerful and hope-filled perspective. This is not to suggest that we should not care and care deeply about society’s problems or our neighbour’s situation; however, wearing an attitude of upbeat curiosity can actually enhance our ability to live meaningfully.
So, how do we do that? How do we wear a smile and have a lift to our step that is real and not fake? First of all, I believe we encounter the truth of difficult situation head-on: no denying, no evading. We talk about a troubling situation to someone we trust- whose opinion we value; praying about a given situation or episode is also helpful. To speak with the Divine about the hurts that trouble our spirit and that of the world is important. We can consciously spread “Good News”, looking for it and then capitalizing on it. That is what we share when we meet our next-door neighbour or our cohort at work. We take responsibility for passing on a smile, for creating a more peaceful corner of our own milieu. Positive “warm fuzzies” create a sense of well-being. May we take charge of the threatening atmosphere and change it in the little ways we can: being people of caring and hope, creating peaceful encounters, lessening the drama of the daily news, and spreading the Good News of faith and renewed energy.
We are called to face reality and truth with courage, not to duck and hide. Life is good. We can be sources of creative energy and enthusiasm; we can live and spread hope.
Helen Russel, csj
Spiritual Director at Providence Spirituality Centre www.spiritualcentre.ca