In late May, I participated in an AGNT (Association for Global New Thought) Leadership Forum webinar, “Exploring Big Questions” with Dr. Kenn Gordon (Centers for Spiritual Living Spiritual Leader). While discussing how we respond to current day crises and opportunities, one of the participants share some guidelines that I found very interesting and enlightening.
Here is a summary of some of her main points on What is and is not mine to do:
* What is NOT mine to do *
- Not to change people’s minds
- Take a stand against something
- To be right
* What IS mine to do *
- Mind my own business (but give of yourself)
- To live my highest and best life (do nothing until guided; look at the big picture)
- Engage in the world of effects (through spiritual activism and spiritual engagement).
With so much turmoil going on in the world and especially here at home in the US, I found her points to be very helpful.
As New Thought practitioners, it is not our job to interfere or try to change people’s minds. Their truth is their truth. In most cases, they feel very strongly about their truth, so trying to change it would be destructive.
Not taking a stand may be puzzling, but notice, it says not to take a stand AGAINST something. In other words, it is more important to change our thinking and verbiage to what I DO stand for like freedom, equality, peace, etc.
On What is Mine To Do, we can formulate a response that may be more appropriate in any given situation.
1. Mind my own business which goes along with not trying to change people’s minds. Guarding our own thought and words are more than enough to keep us busy!!
2. Live my highest and best life which will mirror the change we wish to see in the word. Expressing forgiveness and compassion will move others to do the same.
3. Engage in the world of effects can mean different things. To me, it means helping to feed the hungry, house the homeless, and serve in areas where help is needed. Of course, this can also mean to join in marches, give money and resources to the candidate that aligns with your values. It is up to the individual to engage at a level where they are comfortable.
In conclusion, we decided that Spirit places in front of us those things we are most compassionate about as what is ours to do.
I hope this helps to give comfort and direction when dealing with the highly-charged political arena of today!