As the presidential voting season starts to heat up again, the air feels charged with an edginess that reflects the deep divisions that have emerged among us.
An atmosphere of tension engulfs us, where a single opposing opinion or preference seems to easily ignite a strong reaction.
It’s a critical time to find a harmonious balance between our core values and open-mindedness.
In these volatile times, it’s vital to maintain a balanced moral compass when faced with differing viewpoints, as this ensures the health of our relationships.
We might want to ask ourselves,
What are my fundamental beliefs, and am I sticking to them, or am I just going along with the crowd to avoid conflict or rejection from my friends?
Do I understand what I believe in?
Being open to new ideas while staying true to our fundamental values isn’t just a personal virtue; it’s what makes a healthy democracy.
While researching this article, I came across an insightful perspective on virtues from New York Times columnist David Brooks. In his piece ‘The Moral Bucket List,’ Brooks explores the significance of eulogy virtues versus resume virtues, shedding light on the qualities that truly matter in our lives.
In his quest to live a more balanced life, David realized that he must work a little harder if he wanted to save his soul.
In his pursuit, it occurred to him that there are two sets of virtues: the resume virtues and the eulogy virtues.
Self-awareness is critical in manifesting our desired virtues.
Our thoughts, beliefs, and actions shape our reality. We have the power to create the life we want, but first, we must look within and notice when we’re off track and out of alignment with our core values.
When we lack flexibility and become too rigid, we limit our growth and easily fall into an “us vs. them” mentality. This rigidity sets us up to fight where there are only losers and no winners.
When we find ourselves stuck in negative emotions, we can always break free from that cycle.
Imagine yourself as a deep-rooted tree, grounded and firmly planted, weathering life’s storms. The roots symbolize our grounding common sense, while the flexible branches represent our willingness to embrace new ideas and different perspectives.
Striking a balance between these two parts of our lives is pivotal for personal growth and cultivating connections with others.
Closing Thoughts:
The Moral Bucket List, as outlined by David Brooks, provides six valuable ideas to enrich your inner life and enhance your ability to navigate today’s political landscape.
The Humility Shift
Those we admire are profoundly honest about their weaknesses and have achieved humility through intense self-awareness.
Self-Defeat
External success is achieved by competing with others, but character is built through confronting our weaknesses. Learn to tame anger, even if it means doing silly things to let it go.
The Dependency Leap
Character stems from a deep-rooted foundation, and people with strong character recognize the necessity of seeking assistance from others.
Energizing Love
Love has the power to overcome our natural self-centeredness. It electrifies us and reminds us that our true wealth lies in others.
The Call Within the Call
Answering the call to serve or help others quiets the self and brings fulfillment.
The Conscious Leap
Those on the path to inner light ask themselves, “What is life asking of me?” They strive to match their intrinsic talents with the world’s deep needs. When the ego rests, we achieve a sense of limitless gratitude and acceptance of how life has treated us.
In these challenging times, finding the balance between staying true to our core values and embracing openness, we can build a brighter future and strengthen the bond that unites us.
….. until next time many many sweet blessings.
Love + Wellness to you!!
2 Responses
Very insightful for changes I’m trying to make in my life at the moment. Great read!
Thank you Ann, so glad it was helpful!!