Strength

"i have accepted fear as a part of life, specifically the fear of change, the fear of the unknown. i have gone ahead despite the pounding in the heart that says: turn back, turn back: you'll die if you venture too far." -erica jong

(shamelessly lifted from my friend Cindy's facebook profile - thanks Cin!!!)

The Moral Roots of Liberals and Conservatives

Ever look at someone on the other side of the political spectrum from you and be absolutely baffled as to how they could see all the same information you do and reach such a vastly different conclusion? This is an absolutely FASCINATING video that takes a step back from divisive politics and examines why this is the case. Description below:

Psychologist Jonathan Haidt studies the five moral values that form the basis of our political choices, whether we're left, right or center. In this eye-opening talk, he pinpoints the moral values that liberals and conservatives tend to honor most.

A Shining Example Us All:

Recently protesters demonstrated outside of a Joan Baez concert in Idaho Falls. Pictured is Joan, who asked to go outside and meet face to face with them, and two of the protesters. As with many of my generation, I am only vaguely familiar with Joan Baez and her legacy. This diary, written by a witness to the event and the subsequent conversations between all involved was extremely moving and inspiring. This is why need to heed droogie and be beautiful to one another! What a wonderful woman!

BONUS: YouTube video of Joan Baez singing "We Shall Overcome" in her kitchen. She sings some lyrics in Farsi, in hopes of offering some inspiration and comfort for those in Iran. Thankfully, she has also inspired and comforted me.

Have a seat...

I came across this video the other night on an astrology blog that really like to read. This short film is described as a 25-minute retrospective (that) asks us to reflect on the state of the world and ourselves, and to listen more closely to what is being asked of us at this time of unprecedented global transformation.

I will admit that at times some of the images made me uncomforable or embarrassed - but I would encourage any of you who find yourself feeling the same way to please hang in there and keep watching! Suspend judgement and the very human desire for an "outcome". As one of the contributors suggests, the challenge is to "NOT fix it, just sit with the truth of it. Just sit with the truth of it and let go of the story of America As Savior..."

For more information on the video, the organization that produced it, or to see other (shorter!) worthwhile videos from them go to GlobalOnenessProject.org.