August 16, 2020: Seeds of Positivity
“People deal too much with the negative, with what is wrong. Why not try and see positive things, to just touch those things and make them bloom?”
Thich Nhat Hanh
During these troubled times, it is not uncommon to be filled with anxiety, fear, frustration, and even anger at events which seem out of our control. Yet, a conversation yesterday with a close friend Cynthia, reminded me once again of how important it is to “plant seeds” of positivity to counteract the negativity that pervades our current world of social media.
“People deal too much with the negative, with what is wrong. Why not try and see positive things, to just touch those things and make them bloom?”
Thich Nhat Hanh
We were catching up, after months of not seeing each other, sharing how we were coping during these unprecedented times. The conversation ranged from practical ideas and regrets to the value of mindfulness and reading. In particular works of contemporary spiritual leaders such as Thich Nhat Hanh and Deepak Chopra. Both of us have found a sense of peace and solace through creative pursuits, spending time in nature and also the benefits of daily meditation. After finishing the conversation followed by a hike to a favorite lake, I reflected about what behaviors produce positivity and which ones bring on negative emotions.
“We need to be aware of the suffering, but retain our clarity, calmness, and strength so we can help transform the situation.”Thich Nhat Hanh
I have discovered that even someone like me with an “overactive brain” can calm my whirling thoughts through a daily practice of breathing and quietude. Deepak Chopra has a series of guided meditations, often free, which always seem to quiet any negative emotions I might have. When I am in a calm state and anxious thoughts arise, I identify them as unnecessary and not a true reflection of what is actually happening in the present moment. The practice of meditation has also led to identifying those components of my life that I am grateful for; from essential needs of having a secure roof over my head and food in the cupboard, to my family, friends, health and the opportunity to work in a creative field.
“Take a quiet walk with mother nature. It will nurture your mind, body, and soul.” A.D. Williams
When outdoors in nature, we are presented with a daily, ever-changing panorama of life. Entire life cycles play out on a single wildflower plant from blossom to seed.
Walking with the intent to seek what’s blooming or “being” is also a form of meditation bringing both a sense of calm and wonder at the beauty of life. Underneath a canopy of trees, the challenges of our modern world seem far away.
“Being able to smell the fresh air and disconnect from the news and your phone—there’s nothing like it.
Jason Ward
As an avid news junkie, I have realized that cruising the news sites for updated information often fuels distress and lessens hope. In order to maintain a sense of calm and peace, I need to balance the need for information with an understanding that like the lessons we see in nature, these times will also pass.
Though we all have the fear and the seeds of anger within us, we must learn not to water those seeds and instead nourish our positive qualities, those of compassion, understanding, and loving kindness.
–Thich Nhat Hanh
We can’t individually control the scourge of CoVid-19 (besides being careful and wearing a mask when out in public). We also can’t boost the economy, eliminate racism and heal our divided country alone, but we can change the way we respond to events which seem our of our control.
“Whoever loves and understands a garden will find contentment within.”
Chinese Proverb
Planting seeds to nourish hope and positivity is as important as weeding out those of anger, anxiety and fear in our garden of life. Choosing activities that bring joy, provide a sense of peace, and support good health, is another way to combat the fallout from an increasingly troubled world. Staying positive is crucial for our emotional , mental and physical health.
What kind of garden do you want to live in? What will you plant and who will help you tend your garden?
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