LET'S TALK ABOUT . . .




                                                  "WHAT IN THE WORLD ?"


More people are questioning what is happening to what once were their stable and reliable constants. All of the shifts occurring around them are being experienced as disconcerting, disturbing, even destabilizing at times.  We do not live in a static world.  We live in the midst of ever-increasing dynamics that are becoming more complex and convoluted with the passage of time.


Weather dynamics seem to be more intense: climate change, shifting seasonal patterns, flooding, drought, raging forest fires, tsunamis, dust storms, tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes.  Crises in environmental dynamics are impacting our lives: the presence of blue algae in bodies of water that are potentially toxic, the demise of the bee population, fish dying and washing ashore, the problem with muscles affecting our lakes, birds falling out of the sky dead without explanation.


Socially people are more withdrawn, less engaging in person with the rise of social media and new electronic devices.  The dependence on these devices is increasing exponentially, even to the point of affecting the laws regarding the use of them.  They have become problematic in our homes, schools, even our vehicles.  Our bonding, attachment and connection needs are met through dependency on our devices.


Political dynamics are more uncertain at all levels: yesterday's allies are today's enemies; the fragmentation of powerful entities around the world into splinter groups vying for control of the earth's resources; political parties warring among themselves, even splitting to espouse their platforms.  There is a profound loss of faith in the political systems that have held societies together for centuries.  People no longer believe their voices will really be heard or make a difference.  I cannot remember a time when so many have taken to the streets in protest globally.


Financially there appears to be a widening gap between the upper and lower classes around the world.  People are less sure of financial institutions, the markets and those who manage them.  Many governments are reacting to the shifting trade and business dynamics globally: the effect of global outsourcing, historic tax sources following that outsourcing, new treaty relations to perpetuate import and export markets where old ones have shifted.  Debt levels are climbing exponentially.


Ideologically many are lost, confused and leery of philosophical and spiritual beliefs they once embraced for strength, hope and stability.  Where do we look for some kind of stability?  Where do we find strength?   Where do we find whatever hope we embrace?  So many of the trusted sources  have lost their appeal or are wearing "thin" in the midst of all that is happening in our world.  One after another they are being exposed as limited or even impotent.


So in light of all that is happening in our world, where is the potential for good?  I believe all of this is leading many to seek that which is simpler, authentic, trust-worthy.  I believe more people are beginning to look for and be grateful for what they do have.  Perhaps we need to get back to basics, to examine the foundations on which we are building our lives.  "What in the world" do you think?


Until next time . . . this is, Just Janice!