[RE]CONNECT
It is easy to be consumed by the idea that a new year brings nothing but new possibilities. It is something which has been romanticised for decades and every now and again a new set of vocabulary backed by distinct modes of thought come into play, attempting to redefine the function of a new year. Intention is one such example. To set an intention is to create space for something to happen, to manifest a feeling or action, coming from a place of and contributing to a greater sense of self-love. It combats the often vague and superficial new year’s resolution that rests upon the apparent need to change something about yourself in order to find happiness. A need to change which also rests upon having access to particular things; a gym, high quality food, education, expert guidance or money.
As we crossed the line into 2021 this whole landscape of the new has been redefined in another way, by a global pandemic which continues to consume many of our lives. We started wishing 2020 to be over so that this year would be better, the year that we conquer Covid. Whilst sentiments of this nature appeal to hope they are perhaps more accurately an expression of desperation, anger and a desire for it to be different, irrespective of the action and responsibility we as individuals have taken during such unique circumstances.
For many the world was already a difficult place before Covid-19 first had any impact. The varying states of lockdown, the ripples and waves this virus has caused across the globe have heightened these struggles and polarised the human experience. It has highlighted and contributed further to the discrimination many different communities have been subject to for numerous years. This includes but is by no means restricted to; POC and BAME communities, LGBTQIA+ especially Transgender people, the homeless and displaced, the poor. Although there have been huge movements to counter some of the injustices being faced, monumental moments of unity and further clarity as to who is responsible, those who continue to abuse power have used Covid-19 as a means to target anyone that threatens their supposed integrity.
To step in further, a social distinction could be made between those whose desperation is aimed directly at the individuals holding positions of power, whole communities who have been affected not merely by a virus but the actions of governments during a global pandemic, and those whose frustration is centred around Covid-19 and the inconvenient interruption it has placed upon the upkeep of their lifestyle. The animosity between us is becoming increasingly palpable. Feelings that find a home within potent volatility and feelings which should not be gaining strength.
It's time to reconnect.
We cannot rely entirely on the feelings which arise from focussing on our differences as a means to create change. That kind of emotional energy is always in flux and unsustainable in nature. Allow yourself to understand exactly where these feelings come from, where they take root for you as an individual. Allow yourself to find clarity and perspective; to note any biases you may have, to acknowledge how your life experiences have impacted the way you think about certain people and situations. Know that in doing so you are attending to your own truth. And pursue this because there is nothing more powerful than knowing your true self.
Knowing your self is knowing your individual power, that you can have a positive impact on others, that you can connect with others power and the environment that surrounds you. It means that you can create the intention to enact change from a place of truth. And the only thing you need to reconnect… is you.
