You keep on hitting me right where I live, D-M. Thank you. I’ve only recently begun reading the Sunday NYT again, after going cold turkey on 11/6. Thank you for encouraging me to read it mindfully, and be with those who are suffering. Worthy life goals.
I really appreciate this, Diamond-Michael. Years ago, during a particularly challenging time in my life, one of my teachers shared this with me: "There's a difference between insulation and isolation. It's time for you to insulate, but be aware of when it becomes isolation." That has been a guiding north star in my life: am I insulating or isolating?
At first I interpreted this post at a highly personal level. But then I watched a bit of news - Anand Giridharadas on Morning Joe talking about isolationism as a failed economic policy. Now I find these words apply in the wider global political context.
Solitude has been the way I've survived since I was small. But then suicide has also been plan b. So I know that my way of being is not what most people do.
I think that homosapiens has devolved not evolved. I think we are so disconnected from our spiritual source that we have become less human. Some of us are quite depraved, particularly evident in our treatment of animals and nature. We are destroying the earth's ability to support life. We are destroying ourselves.
I understand that your capacity to love may well exceed my own. I sincerely wish you well. May you always have loved ones in your life.
I could have written back to Diamond-Michael directly, but decided to walk a more indirect path, and reply to you, instead. It seems his post is already having its intended effect. You put aside your solitude, for just a bit, and connected. I think you may be underestimating the effect of your simple action in countering the depravity that you see. Thanks for writing to him. Your comment helps illuminate his post.
You keep on hitting me right where I live, D-M. Thank you. I’ve only recently begun reading the Sunday NYT again, after going cold turkey on 11/6. Thank you for encouraging me to read it mindfully, and be with those who are suffering. Worthy life goals.
Hey Peter. Life’s a journey. The Sunday NYT was a staple in our home for 25 years. I am also a fan of The Economist. Have a great Sunday!
This. “isolation disguised as “self-care” becomes a cage.”
I really appreciate this, Diamond-Michael. Years ago, during a particularly challenging time in my life, one of my teachers shared this with me: "There's a difference between insulation and isolation. It's time for you to insulate, but be aware of when it becomes isolation." That has been a guiding north star in my life: am I insulating or isolating?
What a great expression of this very theme. So spot on!
At first I interpreted this post at a highly personal level. But then I watched a bit of news - Anand Giridharadas on Morning Joe talking about isolationism as a failed economic policy. Now I find these words apply in the wider global political context.
They do. Great observation.
Thanks for this important reminder that connection is sacred, Diamond-Michael.
🙏
Solitude has been the way I've survived since I was small. But then suicide has also been plan b. So I know that my way of being is not what most people do.
I think that homosapiens has devolved not evolved. I think we are so disconnected from our spiritual source that we have become less human. Some of us are quite depraved, particularly evident in our treatment of animals and nature. We are destroying the earth's ability to support life. We are destroying ourselves.
I understand that your capacity to love may well exceed my own. I sincerely wish you well. May you always have loved ones in your life.
I could have written back to Diamond-Michael directly, but decided to walk a more indirect path, and reply to you, instead. It seems his post is already having its intended effect. You put aside your solitude, for just a bit, and connected. I think you may be underestimating the effect of your simple action in countering the depravity that you see. Thanks for writing to him. Your comment helps illuminate his post.
Hey Jackson. Always great to hear from you. Enjoy your weekend!
Thank you