Blog# 167 Look Inside for the Answer
In these times of corruption and deceit, some people grow fearful, distrustful and disillusioned regarding authorities. Others conclude that the most constructive insights and answers can usually be found by looking within. Looking outside for certain things, such as the bus schedule, a grocery store’s address or how well a friend feels after an injury makes sense. After sufficient independent research and observation, answers to many questions, such as 1. which job or medication is best to take or avoid; 2. which country, state, city or building is best to live in; or 3. would it be preferable to accept assistance from or offer help to a particular person or organization, may best be found by looking inside.
In order to take an unbiased look at the world, I think it is necessary to become benevolent toward all. At the same time, self-preservation is necessary. Good childhood foundations in both benevolence and self-preservation are important. Stable, responsible upbringing, including intelligent guidance in honesty and self- responsibility, such as health choices and mental attitudes are essential. Examples and guides in rational thinking and compassionate perspectives, as well as encouragement in cultivating individual abilities and gifts to use for the benefit of oneself and others are vital. Ultimately, the best foundations will give support in finding a constructive purpose and meaning in the world.
Distractions, such as frequent use of recreational drugs, Inappropriate medications, excessive internet stimulation, including social media and even much of the news and other forms of gaslighting can interfere with the development of a stable, positive foundation. Encountering conflict and crime, religious persecution, war and starvation, and other traumas can interfere with optimal development and survival. Sometimes, it is necessary for individuals to leave family, community and even country to move forward constructively in their lives. Overcoming distractions that come from inside, is especially challenging. Getting highjacked by physical and mental temptations and barriers and by excessive emotions is common. The world is booby trapped with objects and beings we may fear or hate if we allow ourselves to do so.
Sometimes, scholars share what appear to be admirable insights into some world issues. Journalists and researchers may present us with cutting-edge information. However, the deepest understanding of the world is often rooted in self-knowledge and comprehension of oneself as part of the collective whole.
Winters, especially cold, snowy ones, may give us more time and space to achieve beneficial insights. If it is winter where you are living, then I hope that you can use some of this cold, isolating time to look inside a bit more than usual. And I hope that we all can use the many opportunities we encounter to move our world closer to universal understanding, acceptance, and peace. Sit somewhere quiet and read this blog to yourself one more time. If you choose, it can be used as a kind of meditation. Almost anything can.
This Blog’s offer: Please look forward to longer days, more sunlight, and the next blog, which will be very specific and down to earth.
Dr. Elaine Wagner Holistic Health 