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 I recently read Lynne Twist’s book, “The Soul of Money”. It’s about reclaiming the wealth of our inner resources that is often lost when money comes into the picture. This book dispels the myths of money and the profound significance that we have placed upon it. During this time of economic transition and challenge, it is a perfect book to bring forth the realities, fears and illusions that money often signifies. It’s ironic that as a Nation and as a world, we are faced with coming to terms with how money deeply influences how we individually and as a world feel about ourselves. I have counseled many individuals who have been deeply affected by the economic situation. Some have completely lost their retirement funds while others have lost their sense of personal value due to a loss of a long held job. It seems that none of us have gone unscathed during this period of financial transition. I have delved deeply into the emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects of money and the relative meaning that we have placed on it. It is truly amazing how much value is placed on the “almighty dollar” not only in the possessions we can acquire but the emotional buy-in that often identifies an individual’s sense of personal worth and value. A shift in financial status, either acquiring more or losing it, dramatically influences one’s sense of well-being. The question of “who am I if I don’t have an excellent credit score or a large bank account?” can take it‘s toll on an individual‘s sense of significance. The illusion that money can buy happiness is quickly melting into the harsh reality of what our country was built upon, an illusion that money can take our troubles away. Now that so many have lost this shaky sense of security, many don’t know how to pick themselves up and begin pulling their lives together. It’s as if we have built our sense of worth on something that is too fluid and unstable to hold onto. Like grains of sand in an hourglass. Faced with this reality, how does one pick themselves up and move forward? Through all of my learning’s both personally and professionally, what I know to be true is first an individual needs to know at a very deep level, that they are going to be OK. That their basic needs will be addressed. This is where community comes in not only for physical support but also emotional support. Taking the time to offer whatever help or aid to a neighbor or friend can hugely benefit someone. Also taking time to really listen to what folks are going through. Not listening to add to the drama rather listening so that the other knows that they are not alone; that there are solutions. I realize that this period in our history is one of great strife and suffering. I also sense that at a very deep level we are cleansing our Nation of systems that no longer work. As with any significant change within a culture there is the period of uncertainty and fear. Notice your thoughts, attitudes and “story” of how this period is affecting your life. Becoming aware is the first step in making a change. Spend time with folks who uplift you rather than add to your discontent. Together we will find the solutions and move forward in a productive and proactive way. It begins first by being the change that you want to see. Now is the time to walk your talk, one step at a time. Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites       Add your comment |