Seeing the world, we wonder if this is a time of crisis or opportunity? We are already deep in a climate emergency, and one could describe it as one of the most traumatic crises of modern times. However, from a spiritual viewpoint the circumstances bear an incredible opportunity for transformation. Transformation of the self and transformation of this planet. Looking at time from a linear perspective, it feels as if we are approaching the end of an era. We are totally unsure of what comes next, if anything at all. However, looking closely, we can see that days, months, seasons, and nature itself move in circles and cycles. Interestingly, there is not a single straight line to be found in nature. Humanity has always gone through periods of light and darkness and there was always a new beginning. Seeing time in a cyclical way offers hope for the future and teaches us humility and compassion. This is the most critical period in history, this is the transition when we move from the lowest to the highest entropy, from negativity into goodness, truth and beauty.
The Power of Love
The spiritual invitation that comes from awakening to the possibility of a collapse of our civilization is a powerful one. Spiritual traditions share insights into principles and practices that will be helpful in this context. We all are aware that love can do magic. This is the time to connect to the Divine and radiate unconditional pure love into the world. Every faith tradition has emphasized that time spent in silence, prayer or meditation develops one’s inner power and capacity for love. Ignorance of love allowed violence to erupt against the human family and nature itself. The power of love will increase our capacity to serve and support those in need.
Cultivating Courage
Spiritual traditions often speak of the eternal existence of the inner being – there is no beginning or end. Once one experiences the self in this way, there is no longer any fear of death. This state of courage and love becomes the anchor of support and stability for the self. The n you can support others and help them to remove their fear. Fear is infectious but courage is also contagious.
Developing Resilience
We could say that resilience is the ability to stay in a position of strength in the face of adversity. The understanding of oneself as an eternal being of light helps to develop the needed inner resilience and self-esteem. Being aware of the inherent goodness of everybody creates a strong base for cooperation and a new culture of sharing. Resilience in its pure form comes from a stable relationship with the Divine, knowing that there is always a kind parent ready to listen and offer support.
The Practice of being an Observer
To be a detached observer enables me to perceive upheavals and challenges from a space of inner stillness. A regular practice of mediation is the foundation of detachment and stillness. Such a mindset helps me to take the right action at the right moment.
Simplicity and Adaptation
As the population is growing and resources are depleting, we need to develop simplicity in our lives with less dependency on facilities. Reducing our carbon footprint and consumption now prepares us for the circumstances that tomorrow will bring. The deep adaptation has to become a natural part of our life. Simplicity springs from an inner state of contentment in which we no longer look for unnecessary consumption. In the awareness of the inner being, the soul, the treasures within are available to each one. Our inner journey has opened the door to the essence of happiness.
Respect for Nature
Nature is an absolute power and over the last few years the increasing numbers of droughts, floods, fires, and earthquakes have shown that humans interfere with the elements at their peril. Nature has moved out of its equilibrium. We have exploited the planet and treated it with aggression rather than giving it the deserved respect. A regular practice of meditation creates respect for the self and, therefore, also for nature. When the planet is treated with respect and love, it will respond with harmony and abundance. Mother Earth has taken care of the human family since the beginning of time and has all the resources to do so in the future.
Spirit of Collaboration and Community
At present the world is heavily suffering due to conflict and competition. This is the direct result of ego, greed and a lack of values. Experiencing the interconnectedness of life on all its levels develops inner dignity and pure love. The in-depth understanding that we are all brother and sister living together on this planet allows us to share, collaborate and live in harmony. Once we visualize a better world, we soon realize that compassion, love, peace and joy are among the most essential qualities. The call of the time for each individual is to liberate the self so that we can heal our relationships and truly interact with others in a selfless manner. The ability to collaborate with others is a major factor that can carry us through an uncertain future.
Connecting with the Divine
For 84 per cent of the world’s population, faith plays a major part in their daily life. For many of them there is a recognition of the Divine, who is the Source of Llove and Ttruth, the Benevolent Parent and the Compassionate Friend. To strengthen this relationship of the mind and heart is the way to experience constant support, guidance, and protection. Meditation can be practised by everyone across religious and cultural borders. It is an easy and simple method to initiate this beneficial connection. The world is definitely at the turning point, where soon the darkness will end and there will be a world of light, a better world in which there can be truth, justice, love, happiness and peace for all. We all do recognize the need to rise, support and help others. Let us join hands in this task and create a beautiful world.
B.K. Jayanti is Additional Administrative Head of the Brahma Kumaris.