Responding to the Government Shutdown

[dropcap2 variation=”coffee”]I[/dropcap2]n the last post, we talked about the recent Government Shutdown and it’s affect on us. I shared what I have sensed from people:

I said the apathy concerns me most because when we lose hope our lives begin to shrink.

Here are some things I believe each of us can do during this time to make sure that doesn’t happen:

Your heart is your most prized possession. You must protect it. Let it feed on what is good, uplifting and powerful. Refuse to allow your mind to go places that aren’t helpful.

This isn’t a time for relativistic jellyfish. We must know what we believe and why, and be willing to express our convictions with honesty and love. The world needs you.

I’ve seen active listening diffuse more conflicts than any other singular thing. People want to be heard. Some differences can be threatening to us, but we can still honor the person by listening. Often this opens people up to consider other points of view.

Imagine if we could disagree yet express our convictions in an honest but kind manner. We can’t un-say something once it’s out there, especially online.

Dare to see this time as one of unprecedented opportunity. Live out your convictions with love today – and the results will show themselves over time.

The government may be shutdown, but we don’t have to be.