Preface: I’m really struggling with depression and despair, as I’m sure a lot are. I’m triggered by the cruelty of the current government every day. And I’m stuck in some really toxic mindsets that are not good for me or the people around me. I know what I need to do but my motivation muscle is just… flaccid. And yesterday I think I found how to restrengthen it…
Yesterday a treester and I were having a bit of a chat via messenger, and she said she went for a short walk and I told her that she should be proud of herself for that. Then she said something that she doesn't know actually changed my brain a bit... She said she did it after reading my post about my depression because she believes in the ripple effects of our actions.
Um... CLICK went the puzzle piece.
When I started to dance again at 40, it was FOR/in HONOR OF a friend who had passed away too young and without fully embracing his artist's life. Every time I felt whiny about dancing -- which inevitably made me feel so much more joyful -- I would think of him.
And THERE IS THE COMMUNITY SECRET.
We are all connected. Humans are mirroring animals. We are made FOR EACH OTHER. And so any actions we take that are totally based in "FOR ME"... well, for most of us who are loving and compassionate humans ... that's not going to necessarily work long term.
I remembered I do my best work in this world when I am doing it for/with others. Period.
So now I have a note on my phone that goes off at 8:30 AM every day that says: FOR .... and lists a bunch of names.
To remind me that my life is not just about me.
To remind me that my actions have ripple effects.
To remind me that my calling is higher than myself.
I don't expect things to instantly and totally change over night but I can FEEL IN MY BONES that this was that motivation I was looking for.
REMINDER: If you are in need of more community that is healthy, safe, and supportive and also, well, free, you can request to join the Circle of Trees on Facebook.
(BELOW: a video from my long weekend workshop. I thought this wave experiment was perfect for a post about doing for and with others.)