Strong Roots
I heard a comment the other day about being a global citizen and that in such there is a responsibility to be informed of world events. I was under the impression this person took it a step further to also mean that we must also be invested in world events. I am not sure how someone can get invested in events that happen outside of one’s direct community, unless that investment is financial perhaps, so I am going to assume this person was speaking more about social media and comments sections.
In this discussion I became aware of the notion that it’s privilege to not be up to date in world events. To an extent, I can understand this sentiment. Before Covid hit, I didn’t really pay attention to the news. I didn’t even know what the weather would be like. I spent my life in houses up until that point, and I just stuck my head out the front door to know how to dress. I was in a place of privilege, and as such I could exist much more insularly.
Looking back to my life before the pandemic, I can see where I maybe needed to develop some awareness and compassion, but I do have a hesitation with identifying as a global citizen. I recognize that I must live responsibly and that with globalization, continents really are interconnected. I therefore do my best to buy local, to recycle, to not waste water, and to be mindful of where I get my clothing and animal products from. But this idea that I have to be engaged in what is happening in other countries, and that I’m acting in privilege if I don’t, is an unkind expectation to place on someone.
As my city navigates a new world where we are beset by inflation, violence, a housing crisis and homelessness, it is an unreasonable request to then add worrying and arguing about events happening elsewhere to the list. I know for myself, I must protect my headspace, or my mental health will suffer.
Self-care is not selfish. When I can take care of myself and ensure my needs are being met, I can then go into my community and help the best I can. I have a higher power who guides me, and I have the self-respect to know my limits. As someone moving through recovery, I need to be mindful about the words and information that I take in, as well as put out.
There seems to be an air of indignation with the more secular worldly people, and it really gets my back up. This is something that I am open to working through, while learning how to speak my truth in kindness, without fear of being insulted or dismissed. And of course, trusting that my higher power will advocate for me when I appear to fall short or unrefined.
In an age of confusion and uncertainty, I go back to basics. Back to the beginning of grassroots movements and partnerships, which for me is true politics. I believe that once we clean up what’s in our own backyard, then we can go into a new terrain, within reason and effectiveness.
