Playing with Politics: Starting off Strong

To be Frank . . . I would have to change my name.

However, to be completely honest, this post scares me a bit. I recognize that this fear is a good fear, and not sharing it would only make things worse for me in the long run. Please notice that I will avoid using the words "Democrat, Republican, Biden, Trump or moist." The final word has nothing to do with politics, but I recognize it's not popular.

What does a healing practice using the arts have to do with politics? Nothing and everything at the same time. I will never run for politics, but I will always strive for the betterment of all peoples. That betterment is both very political and not political at all.

When I was mediating one day recently, I saw the globe. I was then able to watch that globe get divided. First by the seas and mountains, then by continents and countries, then smaller and smaller. I watched as cities, towns, politics, flags EVERYTHING divided us all the way down to "Coke verses Pepsi." Through this mediation, I was reminded that individualism has potential to be wonderful, and destructive. Wonderful for expressing creativity and curiosity, and destructive for those who wish to take advantage. For example, how many commercials out there have the message "You're alone! Use our product and you will not be alone."

That's the fascinating curiosity. When we are an individual, we are able to explore our connections with one another. "We might be different, but we are also the same." When we are alone, we will look for any opportunity to be included somewhere, even if that inclusion creates exclusion somewhere else.

So that's my politics: We are all connected and being comfortable with our unity means that we are okay not seeking out exclusive groups elsewhere.

Putting it into practice is challenging, because from this perspective everyone is wrong. Sure, excluding someone because of their race is wrong. Trying to cancel someone is also wrong.

My biggest and scariest example is with the Palestinian conflict. My heart reaches out to the thousands (between 38,000 and 186,000 souls according to numerous articles) who have lost their lives. At the same time, my heart reaches out to the teenager in America, who has classmates coming up to them and saying vulgar things simply because they identify as Jewish. Just because I disagree with colonialism, does not mean I will support hatred disguised as vindication.

I will promise right here and now that I will support unity for all. If that means working with people and communities who I do not share commonalities with, that's okay. If that means dismantling destructive social constructs, that's okay too. If it means having the difficult conversations, I'll do that with gusto.

My invitation for you is to listen to one another. Not just your friends who share your views but the other side who you feel like "Is destroying America." Ask the difficult questions, not just to challenge but to help yourself understand. Recognize that it's easier to believe the Television or Social Media than it is to listen to another human being. Finally, strive to see the best in people. Yes, that might seem to be a bit Kumbaya, but if you're looking at Grandpa Joe, with the immediate impression that he's going to ruin everything, then yeah, he'll at least ruin your day.

Throughout my time with Scaros Performance Healing, I will be working to create opportunities of unity. Whether it's through social therapy sessions, performance pieces, or even just having a conversation with someone. Stay tuned if you're seeking out opportunities to get involved.

And thanks for listening.