Together We Can = Hope

Lately I have found myself challenged by identifying with others feelings instead of comparing circumstances.  I know this is a defect in me and my thinking.  I can rationally listen to someone cry in fright about the future and financial woes and know that their feelings are exactly like my feelings about money and the future.  I recognize it and I feel it, too.  At the same time, there is a small sad part of me that thinks because our circumstances are different, I am in a more pitiful state.  Ah, there's that old friend self pity.  I think I am past it, over it, beyond it's call, and then –poof- here it is again.

I know that whether someone has savings, pensions, social security, IRA's, or income that I do not have, when faced with an uncertain future, health challenges,  the accompanying medical bills, and the increasing cost of living, the fear is real.  The key is that the facts may be different, but the truth is the same for each of us. 

Believing that there is an answer, that the connection to source is solid, and trusting that I am guided to a solution is the only way through.  I cannot change most of the circumstances that I agonize over.   The seeds of those facts were planted many years ago.  I cannot change the current state of economic reality for middle class Americans or the escalating cost of medicines and health care.   I cannot change the numbers in my bank account by will alone. 

What I can do is identify with others who are feeling the same fear and uncertainty. I can turn to trust and knowing that answers will come but as long as I am tied in knots of fear I have no creativity to see them.  I can empathize instead of strategize.  When I look at fear of economic insecurity in this way, I see that if one person's circumstances seem less urgent to me, than that only means I am looking at things incorrectly.  I open my heart to hear the truth of what any person is feeling about their future and I can share my heart too. 

When I let go of comparing and fear, I start to see answers.  I also feel gratitude for my well being today.  It is impossible to compare feelings by looking at facts.  It is perfectly human to feel uncomfortable about the unknown.  The future might look a bit bleak, especially in the current politicized culture.  Every media source is providing a long list of things to be afraid of -- a constant drum beat of fear.  It is no wonder our human hearts respond to the beat and get amped up. 

I can tune out the drum beat.  I can turn off the tv, the radio, the web or limit their influence.  I can make a conscious effort to believe that the tiger is not chasing me at this moment.  I can focus on what is positive and good and beautiful in my life.  I can empathize and honestly share my feelings with my fellows.  Knowing I am not alone in my fears helps me find trust and hope.  And I do have hope for my future and our future.