Dearest Friends,
Like many of you, I’ve been watching the tragic events that have unfolded in Louisiana, Minnesota, Dallas and around the world, and my initial impulse is to feel helpless and hopeless.
In times like these, we want change and we want it now. We want leaders and people with voices to do something.
Sadly, we’ve also seen these moments come and go. A tragedy takes place and it saturates the news (who often exploit it for ratings). Basically, there’s a swell of interest and outrage but often nothing happens. Then it quickly dies down, and it’s back to the same problems and lack of solutions.
It’s soul-crushing.
So what do we do? Well, I certainly don’t have the answers, but a few thoughts come to mind and I’m going to challenge myself to share them. Now, I know some of you may not give two craps what I think, and I completely respect that. You want healthy recipes and wellness tips. You want to feel uplifted and you gravitate to me for that.
So this is a risk, and I ask you to respect that it’s not easy to put yourself out there, even for me.
Therefore, if I offend you, I’m sorry. But if I make you think, I’m not. It’s because I love our world that I’m taking the time to write this. And as always, I welcome your thoughtful comments because my readers are brilliant.
First, each and every one of us has a voice. And each and every one of us has work to do. If we have anger in our hearts, it’s time to look at it and heal it. If we have judgement in our hearts, it’s time to look at it and heal it. If we have prejudice in our hearts, it’s time to look at it and heal it. If we think we’re better or less than someone else, it’s time to shift that thinking. And if we think we have all the answers, think again.
Rest assured, I’m putting myself through the same paces. I’m also asking myself questions like: What fears do I need to face? And what actions do I need to take to help transform myself and my community? One that comes to mind is to vote—at both the national and local level. Folks worked very hard for our right to have our voices heard. Make sure to exercise that right.
I invite you to seriously examine these ideas and questions.
And I’m sure you’ve got a list of your own. Because while prayers and condolences are spiritually essential, they’re not enough. I’m tired of just praying (though I won’t stop). And I’m really tired of how polarizing honest and necessary conversations have become.
This is truly hard for me to admit, but for the first time in my life I find myself writing people off because of their political and social beliefs. I silently say to myself, “Oh, you think that way? Well, you’re wrong, I’m right, and we’re done.” That’s the last thing I should ever say to myself.
Those thoughts are the seeds that sow isolation, separateness and strife. Clearly, I have more work to do on myself.
We find ourselves in extremely divisive times and you and I are being called to put our best selves forward. It’s going to take an entire societal shift to raise our consciousness, heal our past and strengthen our future—a future in which unity is a sacred value. But if we want that unity, we’ve got to address some major issues blocking our path to freedom.
We need to talk about and take action on racism.
It’s real. And while I never use cancer as a metaphor (because I live it), racism is our nation’s cancer, and it’s destroying people.
We need to talk about and take action on sexism.
Women are not property or second class citizens to control, exploit or manipulate. If we wouldn’t treat a man a certain way, we best not treat a woman that way either.
We need to talk about and take action on bigotry—to see past labels of every kind and into the soul of each person.
Love is love, and we sure need more of it in the world.
We need to talk about and take action on violence.
By any sane standard, we’ve got a problem. Yet working toward solutions has become impossible because all sides of the argument are so deeply entrenched. Isn’t it time we have the courage to tackle complex issues in a holistic way? When any of our dear sisters and brothers are hurting, we’re all hurting. How many more people must die before we do something? Even if doing something means compromise.
Lastly, the energy we bring to this world matters.
And when I refer to this world, I include online comments because we are either contributing to the healing and harmony of the planet or we’re stoking the fires of violence and oppression. Don’t be a troll. Let’s voice our opinions in a way that make people think, rather than spewing bile and hiding behind Facebook. What we say and how we say it matters. And if you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, don’t say it at all. This isn’t about political correctness, it’s about human decency.
Also, by no means is this the full list of what our society is facing, these are just the topics on my mind as I sit here and try to make sense of recent events.
So, while we’re waiting for politicians, celebrities, activists and organizers to do something, let’s also remember our role. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. Be good and respectful to yourself and others during these trying times. Reflect on your own thoughts, actions and blind spots, and I will do the same.
You are wonderful.
Peace,
which womens is give me true love
Kris for President!! You are right, we need so much more love and compassion in this world. Let’s all do our part till it’s infectious
Oh, thank you for this one, Kris. Spreading light, or spreading fear. Spreading love, or hindering hope. It’s a choice, but a conscious one. We must be purposeful in what we do in the world and online, staying true to what feels right in our heart while staying true to the notion that to lessen one is to tie a weight to our own ankles. Love you!
Oh, thank you for this one, Kris. Spreading light, or spreading fear. Spreading love, or hindering hope. It’s a choice, but a conscious one. We must be purposeful in what we do in the world and online, staying true to what feels right in our heart while staying true to the notion that to lessen one is to tie a weight to our own ankles. Love you!
Well said. Too often we may go down on our knees and pray for change and then get up and hope that God or someone else will affect the change we prayed for. Faith without works is dead. Time to pray and then get up and go and do. Go out and make a stand to affect the changes that you pray for.
Kris – you are so classy! I can totally feel the love pouring out of your words. You inspire me so much, and I wish more people could express their thoughts in such a kind and loving manner. xo
Kris, you shine your light brightly and I appreciate it because it reminds me to shine my light brightly too. I really believe that Love is the only answer. I think the real change will come when we each take full responsibility for our part in all of this. We did this. Judgement only creates more separation. We must join together to see through the brutality to the light underneath and forgive everybody and ourselves. Love didn’t do any of this. Fear did this. And fear is something that we all must face within ourselves first so that we can see with different eyes, the eyes of Love.
Amazing post. Being french living in France (right now) I’ve been going through the same thing lately, telling colleagues, friends and family to not give in to anger or fear, but to fight back with love and compassion…
So thank you Kris for your love and kindness.
Hi Kris,
I just had the chance to read How to Transform Tragedy into Change, and I think you are brilliant. We are all confused with the media that is thrown at us and sometimes forget we should begin with love. Thank you for speaking up on such a sensitive subject. You have reminded me to look within and find kindness and stop the anger that is building up in everyone. Anger and accusation are not the answer. XO
Dear Kris Carr
I belong to this lay Buddhist organization called Soka Gakkai International (SGI- meaning Value Creating Society) which has million followers.
Using Nichiren’s Buddhism philosophy the SGI works tirelessly for world peace through each person becoming happy. Daisaku Ikeda the president of the SGI has written many books and a peace proposal to the Untied Nations every year. I follow this philosophy because it gives me away for me to be happy and help others at the same time. Daisaku Ikeda said ” A great human revolution in just a single individual will help achieve a change in the destiny of a nation and further, will enable a change in the destiny of all humankind.” It all starts a change within our own hearts to change our environments outside. For peace to exist in this world than people will need to be happy! Check out the SGI website Kris Carr because I think its goes hand in hand with your philosophy it seems and let me know what you think. thanks
I love you, Kris. You speak my heart. I believe that we will evolve beyond the current state of chaos and confusion when we learn to look within for the things we most shun “out there” and bring love, consciousness and healing to those qualities. Ho’oponopono is an AMAZING tool for just that. Here’s to embodying the change we want to see in the world.
Beautiful – just what I needed to read today!
Well said Kris !!
You put yourself out there and challenged us all to examine our hearts and our self talk.
Thank you , once again , for your courage to make this world a better place.
~Anne ~
Excellent and timely post, thank you. I live in France bu have come to the same conclusion: the problem at bottom is psychological and the only organisations that can heal that are education and family – but we each have the possibility to EXPRESS – not just think – kindness, compassion, willingness to help. Even on the level of smiling at people on the street and in the shops. Simple, but effective.
This is a lovely way to remind us that it’s our energy that spreads out in this world. Loving healing energy, as you always share, is the way to make things better.
Thank you so much for using your voice and your platform to speak on this. Even when we intellectually believe that we need to end racism, police brutality, sexism, violence against women, gun violence, homophobia, discrimination of all kinds, so rarely it seems do we go deep enough to honestly examine our own prejudices and judgments. Because they still exist, even if we feel we’re on the right side of history with our vote and our beliefs. Unconscious bias is dangerous, and we must recognize that there’s always more work to be done, within and without. Thank you for encouraging honest reflection and open dialogue, as well as intentional loving action.
Love this 🙂
Kris, thank you. Your books & blog gave me hope while in treatment. You continue to be a wonderful bright beacon of light, joy & inspiration.. You are a extraordinary gift to the world.
Spot on Kris, well said!
Kudos to you for being not only open and vulnerable (on your blog) and also very direct; every individual must challenge themselves to listen without prejudice, and not be prey to the controlling influencers who would steal our sovereign human right to think for ourselves.
Your thoughts and insights helped lift up my heart and even my soul. It takes right thinking to change behavior.
lovely Kris.
What you write about polarizing and division is so true. I want to be part of the beauty, part of the solution. It’s too easy to be mean and argumentative. It’s meaningful and real to show up for people and to be positive. Thank you, Kris–
Thank you so much Kris. This is exactly the kind of message the world needs, especially today.
Thank you for being brave enough to raise your voice,
Helen
Thank you for sharing your thoughts which mirror my own. You articulated them here on the page.. We can do something.. something small.. making shifts one word at a time.
In grief and love,
Tamara
Thank you for your thoughtful and heartfelt expressions. It is important for people to talk, to listen – truly listen to each other, and for each one of us to ask ourselves who we want to be and what kind of world we want to live in. You mentioned that people look to you for information on wellness, etc but you are respected for your whole self – not just your areas of expertise – and you have a platform as a result. It is important for you to use that platform to speak out like you have here. I applaud you for that, and for all you do and have done for myself and the world. Blessings to you dear Kris. ♡
Dear Kris,
You are so right. It is up to each of us to reflect and put our own house in order. We each need to become mindful of what we say and think because all those words and thoughts gravitate to a pool of either positive or negative energy. This is what is termed mass consciousness and each of us does add to both these energies all the time each minute and moment of our existences.
Thanks for reminding us of this universal law of creation Kris
Love, Peace and Light to all Lorraine Watts
Beautiful Kris – I don’t follow you because you have healthy recipes & wellness tips – I follow you because you have a beautiful, warm, loving and wise heart. This thoughtful and heartfelt post is just one more example of your goodness – thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas about what to do in the face of all this tragedy and sadness. As Ghandi said – “You must be the change you want to see in the world” Thank you this beautiful reminder and for all your posts (and yummy recipes & wellness tips too) I wish you and all the world peace and many blessings always.
Hi Kris,
Thank you for taking the risk and talking about the big ol’ juicy elephant in the room. I have so much to say on the topic of systemic racism in our country, though I am certainly not an “expert” on the topic–not even remotely.
I’m a white, 40 year-old woman, liberal-minded, “conscious” person who was born into a “spiritually-minded” family– I have a rich interior life and am no stranger to doing “inner work”. My mother taught yoga when she was pregnant with me–I’ve practiced yoga since childhood (though off and on). She was holistically minded when it came to nutrition and “alternative” approaches starting back in the early 70’s. I say all of this not because I want to bore you with my life story, but because I believe that in many ways your audience may find themselves in some of my “labels.”
Having said all of that, I have now had a total of 4, candid conversations about race, and systemic racism, which whether we want to look at it or not is our national inheritance– in my entire life… These conversations have all taken place since last Tuesday. I hope that is shocking to the people who are reading this. That shocks me. Three of the conversations took place with 3 of my white friends, some I have known for over a decade. One conversation took place yesterday with an African American woman and yogi I contacted through Facebook after she commented on one of my comments on a post by a well-known yoga teacher.
You see, despite the fact that I believe that we are all the same, equal, humans, etc…, I live in an extremely white world from my city, to my neighborhood, to my clients, to my friends, to who I see at Whole Foods and in my yoga class… “My world” enables me not to “deal” with issues of race because its not something I encounter in my daily life, which is and example of what is meant by the term white privilege… People of color do not have the option to not deal with issues of race. Ever.
I know I am not alone when I say that all of the events that took place last week were devastating to witness; I implore you to use those feelings of empathy and compassion to take external action in some way in your community, whether that is as simple as exploring the reality of implicit racial bias that NONE of us are exempt from (regardless of our “spiritual” practices) with other people in your life. Be brave. I know it’s hard, use what you’ve learned from the works of of Tara Mohr or Brene Brown or many others to be brave and participate in the conversation that most of us have no experience having. It feels tabu, I know, that you tell us something– do it anyway. I promise you will feel better afterwards. Then do it again.
I can’t tell you how healing and hopeful I felt yesterday after spending an hour and a half on the phone with the African American yogi who was willing to talk with me about race and specifically her experience as a woman of color within the predominately white yoga world who for the most part remained silent about last weeks events.
I fumbled at first, my pulse was even racing before I called, I rehearsed what I would say so I didn’t sound like an idiot, and then completely forgot everything I’d prepared when she answered the phone. Which turned out to be awesome because what resulted was a very real and organic conversation sans the overly curated politically correct approach.
Y’all it was so healing on both sides. We were both grateful.
I will stop here, I’ve already written more than I intended to, but I wanted to inspire you enough to push past the belief that all we need to do is look within. That is a lie. It’s not true. If we stay there we are bypassing and hiding from hard things and actively choosing not to become part of the solution.
P.S. the next time that you are tempted to quote Gandhi’s “be the change you want to see in the world” please remember that he one of the biggest human right’s activists of the last century who used his internal/spiritual work to inform his ACTIONS in the world. Here’s my favorite quote by him:
“To me, Truth is God and there is no way to find Truth except the way of nonviolence”. Violence separates people, but the search for truth is a communal enterprise in which we have to work together.”
P.S. I’ve done a lot of research over the past week that I’d be happy to share, but I didn’t want to just dump it here without asking.
Peace,
Jennifer
That is surprising about your 3 conversations, total! I guess I haven’t thought about it…who have I spoken to about these racial attacks? My white and hispanic friends. I appreciate you making me think–
Thank you for your thoughtful words and the courage to put it out there. I’m trying to find my voice again and reading this helps.
Kris, this is so thoughtful and heartfelt. I agree with you. I don’t care what political party or religion or race you are, don’t be afraid to talk about important issues with the mindset that one can respectfully disagree, but listen (!) to what the other person has to say. Everyone single person in the world has a different attitude because we are raised under different circumstances and experiences that all contribute to the formation of our beliefs. Religious, ethnic, political, social status, education. Bring it on. We need to talk.
Thanks Kris, for your thoughtfulness and concern; also your courage to step up to the plate to say something. Your thoughts are right on.
Beautifully said. Thank you, Kris.
Thank you, Kris, for sharing your thoughts from a genuine, vulnerable place. We can all relate and appreciate your putting those ideas out there to nudge us into self-exploration and action! We need to dig deep and start being the change we want to see…must give up some precious moments here and there and take whatever action we can to help make the necessary positive changes <3
Beautiful. Thank you.
Eloquently said, as always. Thank you for speaking out!
Thanks Kris.
That was so well said, Kris and definitely hits the target right in the bull’s eye. I commend you for writing something that is so far removed from your usual genre. Thought-provoking and action-spurring I hope for many who have read it. It’s obvious you care deeply about the injustice in our society and our world and want to do something about it.
Kris this is beautiful. Maybe if we all work on changing our own hearts one small step at a time the world will start to heal in a positive loving way.
Dee
Well said Kris, thank you.
I don’t understand where all the hate is coming from. In the 70’s I was in the military and though I don’t understand some of the beliefs that are out there, I took an oath to defend my country and give my life if necessary so that people could be free. I am also a SGI-USA member and part of our belief system is to look for the Buddha nature in everyone we meet. Sometimes it is not easy when the other person has very different beliefs and attitudes. Hating others and killing people who do not believe as we do does not solve the problem.
That’s a beautiful sentiment. I agree that hanging on to judgement and bias and anger is only toxic in the end. I think relationships need to be based (ideally) on some level of truth. Sometimes, that’s hard for people to understand. They don’t want to face it or accept truth because that means they have to look at themselves. And while we can’t always live in 100% truth-based relationships (at work, with our friends, even with family members) I think there has to be some level of authenticity. If we can’t have that, then I say, let me put my attention and energy elsewhere. I don’t care how well meaning someone’s efforts are/were. Thank you.
Loved it. We must all work to make our communities, neighborhoods and minds into more loving positive places.
Thank you for your honesty, Kris. Yes, no hiding behind Facebook anymore. Be Courageous and Be Kind!
thank you, Kris. this is touching and reminds to to use my voice in the spirit of compassion, to look at my own demons and flush them out, and to listen to people who have different opinions than I do, rather than write them off as ‘wrong’ automatically. I’m struggling to be compassionate with the ignorance to racism and sexism, but I’m steady working on it. any advice from you will be well received. <3
Kris, this too is a hard thing for me to do by “putting myself out there”. I have been, quite honestly, distraught over the events. I have a perspective that the news does not put out there. I am the wife and mother of a police officer. I have wanted people to know my perspective but haven’t known how to go about it. I’m trying this. The media, I feel, has been the main contributor to why there is such a divide. When something happens, they are quick to put a story out without first doing an investigation and finding out all of the facts. I understand with 24-hr. news and a society that wants things instantly, news gets reported as soon as it happens. However, wording that is used to report that news and seeing one side of a story is where wrong first impressions can be made. When an investigation takes place and facts come to light, it doesn’t seem to matter; as I said, the impression has already been set. First, please know that the police are NOT in a war against the black society. The last thing an officer wants to do is shoot and kill any individual. Being a police officer is a very difficult job. Seeing things from an officer’s perspective in never reported. They fear for their lives too and at times have to make a decision to protect their own life. I am not referring to any specific incident but when an incident is reported on news ask yourself these questions and see if your news station has answered them. “What was the officer’s side of the story?” “What was he/she thinking or feeling which made them react the way they did?” This a big piece of the puzzle that society does not get. An officer involved cannot comment as an investigation will be taking place, but getting a perspective from another officer could maybe shed light on the officer’s side. I think that’s why my heart aches because when I see how police are being perceived, I say to myself, “that’s not how it is.” Am I condoning the actions of some officers? Absolutely not. When my husband and I see something inexcusable that an officer has done, we are just as upset as anyone else. Is my husband quick to judge an officer’s actions before all of the facts are known? No, because he wasn’t there, but he does know what officers encounter, hence the non-kneejerk judgement. There is something I told all of my children growing up especially being part of a LEO’s family. It was: “There is good and bad in every race and every occupation, but the majority is good.” That’s what we have to remember. Every incident that happens is that “individual’s” actions. Everyone is different. People can be so different from others that are perceived as being the same as them. We all know that. There are angry individuals and others who make your heart at peace. I think I was meant to see your email to help my heart heal. The world is a different place now from when my husband was an officer on the streets and I worry about my son, the officer. He is white and his girlfriend is black. Between all of my children and who they end up going through life with, I see our home being a rainbow of love. Please keep my LEOs in your prayers. Thanks for your positive spirit.
No Kris, YOU are wonderful. Beautifully stated. I could not agree with you more. Please continue to remind us how WE, each and every one of us, must be accountable for the healing our world so desperately needs.
Have a beautiful, peaceful day.
xo,
Jill
Thank you Kris Carr. I am very glad that you shared this. I absolutely agree. Your words reminded me that I have work to do and your courage to share this message inspires me to take action. We are all, both of and in the world and that makes each one of us powerful and responsible.
I’m so happy you’re speaking out!!! We need more brave and courageous voices like yours! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
You are wonderful and I love you Kris. Thank you for being you and for existing! My sentiments are so in line with yours.
This needed to be said and I admire you for coming forth and putting it out there. Well said Kris! All of us need to look in the mirror and spread kindness all around, even to those we do not like. They need it the most. Let’s also VOTE!!!
Kris, I really appreciate this heartfelt post, which expresses what no doubt many of us are feeling. Thanks for putting yourself out there.
Kris, You are wonderful. We all are. The problem is we forgot that. And we just need to re-member. This is one of the best pieces you have written, Kris. Thank you for that and your inspiration
Well said, Kris — very well said!
This is a beautifully written piece, Kris. I have had the same thoughts in my mind as well. I feel that much of society looks to politicians and celebrities (which seems to be one in the same to me), to know what’s best for us. I feel people have given up too much control and are not actively trying to find positive solutions. The destructive patterns keep on repeating and are getting worse. It saddens me. It’s time to make our voices and love heard. No more division or needless acts of violence. It’s time to stop feeding the monster. We all deserve to be safe, happy and healthy. I hope and pray that people wake up and help our world to be a better place for all.
Dear Kris,
Thank you for this thoughtful and provocative post. Along with your wonderful recipes and valuable wellness tips, your beautiful spirit is so needed in this world. In fact, what I love most about your work is the spirit of light, hope, and presence that your offer. Wishing you the best always.
THANK YOU …..THANK YOU ……THANK YOU
Beautifully said …..you have said everything I feel and fear.
Beautiful! Thank you! <3
Thank you, Kris. I fully resonate and feel very similar. You, sharing your voice this way, to so many is appreciated. Still praying, and also wanting to take action.
Taking a leap of faith in writing this blog is important to open discussion in matters that concern everyone. I truly believe that if you want peace in the world, you need to start with yourself. This helps us to see that despite physical differences in appearance of any kind, we are all essentially the same in many key respects. The body we have been given is not the body we chose to be born with, it is just a shell for our soul and it’s the person inside that matters the most. Simple acts and gestures of kindness can go a long way. I find myself smiling at strangers more to acknowledge that ‘yes I see you and I see that you’re different than me and that’s okay’. This has always been returned with a smile in return at the very least a sometimes a conversation that never would have happened had I not smiled. I find that this simple gesture makes me feel good and that I enjoy connecting with others in a way I never did before. This is by no means a solution to eradicating the problems of racism and hate in the world but it is a starting point for me nonetheless.
Very needed piece kris. Thank you so much for making me think about what is going on in our beautiful world and what we can do about it. I’m looking inward.
You are a genuine healer in my view.
You’re so right. Healing the anger and fear within is essential. Let’s attack these delusions not people and take the energy right out of them. xo
Thank you for allowing yourself to be vulnerable and brave, Kris! You inspire us all to do the same.
Dearest Kris,
Thank you so much for your inspiring words.
God bless you.
Love.
Sofia.
Well-said! Thank you.
I agree Kris. Voting is needed but also discretion after all, there is a reason it is a secret ballot. Jesus said love others as you love yourself. We should try and show people that hate that they are lovable and the love would get rid of the hate. Your comments were very wonderfully said. Your love and hurt for the world are evident. God bless you Kris
Beautiful and powerful words; important conversation. Thank you for continuing that conversation. I love your phrase “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for”. It’s up to us, the future is now – we can no longer sit back and wait for others to take care of things. We must all take responsibility and be part of the solution. Accept no less than love, peace and equality for all. Coexist.
Chris, thank you so much!!! You so eloquently expressed how I feel. Blessings & namaste?
Thank you, Kris. Well said as always! xoxo
As always, for most of us the one thing over which we have a modicum of control or influence, is our own self. The way we turn up in our lives really does count, I believe. That’s why wellness counts. For example, leading with love is easier when a person feels well, right?
Beautiful. Wise wise words. Thank you very much for sharing.
Love you!
Thank you for your intelligent awareness and for having the courage to share this with us. I totally agree with you!
BRAVO!!!
sending loving hugs to you,
Carolyn
Thank you for writing this!!!! Honestly first I’ve read your emails in a while, as I’ve prioritized issues, which you’ve just addressed. SO courageous of you and so thankful you decided to stand up and show your voice!!! Racism, sexism, online bullying and cyber stalking – thank you for verbalizing this in this way. Now let’s organize!! Thank you.
Kris – Hi sensitive soul sister & thank you for you. Quick question, did you read A.Cohens monthly Ease-letter (Stepping into Grace)? If not check it out. Love you and that beautiful heart.
Thanks for your honest and uplifting words! I also feel conflicted, angry, helpless at times with the violence in our country. As a white woman I realize that I’m not typically in the cross-hairs (of police, anyway). I do feel that all races need to stand up and be counted–in public–not just by signing petitions online. A friend invited me to a bi-monthly meeting of SURJ (Stand Up for Racial Justice) in my neighborhood, so I’m attending my first meeting this week. There are chapters all over, so if it calls to you, please join us as we seek solutions and unity. Sending love and light to everyone! : )
I love you. Thank you.
As a mother of 3 young children I am deeply concerned about the future of our world. You used the words soul crushing which really resonated with how I feel about many of the issues we face…
I try to stay in the space of the great Gandhi. “You must be the change you wish to see in the world”.
I’ll continue to try my best to do my part and hope my kids are watching!
Thank you Kris, sister friend for having the conversation!
Nailed. It.
So love you & your inspirational words that we can (& do) live by. What you have written about has touched on subjects that I’ve had rolling around in my head and heart – thank you for writing so eloquently from your soul to ours.
Much love and many blessings to you and us all.
<3
Hi kris, I get and have gotten your books, cards, dvd and newsletter. I usually delete them cause too much to read and I blog shop. This one I decided to read, you seem down to earth and I liked it, a lot. I usually lift others spirits yet today I felt despondent. It’s crushing me. I surrender is what I want to scream, but I must show up cause I feel it’s people that are REALLY hurting. So today I’m going to look again within and more importantly commit to healing my fragmented and judge mental parts that contribute to the split and separation. I’m going to love myself even more, don’t know how
It’s my intention,
Thanks kris, our tribe IS growing
I have Faith
Love
Tania Sethi
I agree, but our biggest problem is government being out of control. We need to look at whom we elect to elect officials who are constitutional. We look to the elected officials to solve all our problems. The government has taken all moral values out of our country. We need to get back to the basics this country was founded on. People need to start looking into there own neighorhood and letting them know they are not going to put up with the crap that is going on.
So well said! I really resonated with your comment on voting and working on ourselves. And that our words online or else where matter.
Well said! A friend shared his experience recently at being invited to a gathering at the Carter Center. Below is a beautiful post he put on Facebook.
After having spent 4 days at the Carter Center with brave souls from around the world telling their stories of hope and courage in the face of violence, women’s rights, human trafficking, education for girls, racism, deradicalization of terrorists, corruption of corporations destroying rivers and land of indigenous people, corruption of law enforcement and military, the loud voices of dishonest politicians seeking power, and murders of those who care to speak out, I asked in my evening prayers for God’s protection of the unspoken heroes. I asked God in my prayers is there truly to be the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth? I’ve always believed that we are to build the Kingdom rather than poof and it is done. I know we each must play a role in this process in the face of our own trials and tests. I found this quote from my Faith:
“Think ye, O My Servants, that the Hand of My all-encompassing, My overshadowing, and transcendent sovereignty is chained up, that the flow of Mine ancient, My ceaseless, and all-pervasive mercy is checked, or that the clouds of My sublime and unsurpassed favours have ceased to rain their gifts upon men? Can ye imagine that the wondrous works that have proclaimed My divine and resistless power are withdrawn, or that the potency of My will and purpose hath been deterred from directing the destinies of mankind?” — Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah
Thank you to all those amazing women and men who shared their time telling of their tireless efforts for the betterment of humanity!
With all of the noise around us my heart is uplifted by your courage!
Very well said!
Thank you for this post Kris. I recently deleted my facebook account as after an inventory for how it made me feel, I realized that I felt very sad and angry every time I had a little session 🙂 It is my belief that we need to create a new platform for staying in touch with our loved ones and that we also need to do a better job of receiving our news from a reputable source. For me facebook has become a place of anger, aggression, and false accusations and I believe that we can all get our message out there in a kinder more understanding manner. While part of me felt it my duty to stay on to help promote love and peace, I decided to take the time I spent surfing the internet and put all that love and peace into the people standing right in front of me; in my home, my workplace, and my larger community.
Again thank you for putting yourself out there to deliver this message, it is timely, encouraging, and spot on! xoxo
I completely agree with you, thank you for having the courage to say it.
I agree. I know I go off like an insane person when I’m confronted by yet another animal abuser. What comes out of my mouth, or my keyboard, is enough to scare even me sometimes. Confronting evil like that sure brings out the demonic in me too, to use religious jargon. It’s even more difficult for me because I used to be VERY spiritual and about 6 or 7 years ago just could no longer sustain it and became an atheist. Talk about feeling alone. Dealing with all this in the world without having a “god” to talk to is very isolating but I can no longer argue with archeological finds and ancient documents. The “god” of my childhood simply doesn’t exist. And that is still a hard pill to swallow.
If we are going to see a change in this world it is up to us and us alone. WE have to BE the change, as a wise man once said. The thing is sometimes people won’t change because they can’t SEE the need to. Sometimes you have to SHOW them what they’re missing. Their blind spot. And mirroring is a really good way to accomplish that. So not every negative comment out there is trolling. To judge the judgers makes you one of them. (Besides we ALL judge. It’s a function of the BRAIN.) I know I have mirrored a mindset I find revolting to those with that mindset to show them how offensive it is. I doubt anyone sees that that is what I’m dong but I’m OK with being judged. I’ll take one for the team any day.
We need practical solutions not pie in the sky wishes and dreams. There is no Santa Claus coming to make everything nice nice. WE have to do it. We and we ALONE. I realize my viewpoint could offend and that I am definitely in the minority. I also know that I have just as much of a right to share my true feelings and thoughts as anyone else does so…. I share. If you feel angry, don’t cover it up with fairy dust. Anger is a great motivator. Just don’t stew in it or use it to be cruel to an innocent being. Anger should hit it’s mark and nothing else. Focus. On the other side of that is forgiveness. We’re taught not to express our anger so some may need to forgive themselves. I don’t have that problem. 🙂
Anger for me is a creative process that can affect change quicker than any other emotion. When you’ve had enough, stand up and say I have had enough! THAT is how I feel about current events. I don’t want to talk about guns anymore. The time for talk is over. I want them off the streets period. End of story. And I will do whatever I have to do to do MY part in making that happen. Even if it means being ugly for a minute. Intent is everything.
So please don’t wallow in delusion. “Good” people get angry AND express it. “Good” people have limits. Repression and role-playing does not a “good person” make. And it sure hasn’t affected change at any point in history. “Good” boys and girls fade into the background. It takes the one who rises up and says, “That is it! I am done! I have had enough! ENOUGH!!”
Thank you, Kris, for your thoughtful contribution in a not-so-conscious world. You are an inspiration as always in all things.
The peaceful, loving and compassionate firecracker that you are shines through out this post. You bring the flame to all of us that will spark and ignite the light we all must shine to heal this world we live in. We can not wait for others to mend the suffering, oppression and hate on our planet. We must be the change, shift our thoughts, speak with love and find compassion for all living beings.
Big sparkling love to you for leading the charge….I will follow, I will lead and love will shine through.
Perfectly, beautifully stated.
Kris, beautiful words from a beautiful woman. If you were running for president or any political office, I would vote for you. God bless you dear Kris and all you do for so many.
If more of us speak up in this way it will help the healing process. Thank you Kris. We are a global community and need to rise together. . Irish Rose…!
Kris – we all need to dig a little deeper and examine ourselves. Our great USA needs to heal. Do not ever be afraid to put our voice out there. Remember what complacency did in the 1930’s, with the rise of Hitler? Too many people were afraid to speak out. What kind of hatred in our country will spread if we do not speak out and encourage one another to stop the hate, stop the violence, teach respect, etc. Continue to use your powerful voice Kris. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing. I agree with you!
Love you Kris – and very well said. I hope this reaches so many who might not otherwise see this kind of message. xoxo
Thank you Kris for finding your courage and using your power to speak to these divisive issues. Health is not only a personal experience – what I eat, how I think, etc. Health is a shared LIVED experience – how we feel in our world, the oppression and suppression we experience, impacts our health as well – all the moreso if our experience as a woman, person of color and/or LGBTQ person (among other experiences) is marginalized, dismissed, or threatened. I’m sure you have a diverse audience of followers…I for one feel all the more seen, spoken to and embraced when you bring these issues into the conversation of health. Thank you.
I couldn’t agree more!!
Thank you so much dear Kris. You started very eloquently what I’ve been thinking for a while now. Honestly, I’m tired of the fighting and hate, yet it’s hard to create a world of love.
Thank you not much more to say, I agree with you. I’m shifting as fast as I can. Love ya
Thank you Kris, this has been a serious topic of conversation for all of us. Agreed that the hiding behind terrible trolling comments has to be dissolved by us all, and to send love, instead of spreading the opposite. We should spew love, and acceptance, because what happens out there, is a reflection of what happens here. Thank you for your bravery in tackling this controversial topic. Neither you nor I, are better than any other spiritual beings, living this human experience.
Thank you. Asking myself the same questions and trying to respond with love. Thanks, Kris. :’)
Thank you, Kris. I needed to hear your words today 🙂
Amen to all of that Kris!
Thank you so much. I had been hoping for a long time that you might write a piece like this, in that special way that only you can. This is everything we needed from you today. <3
The new JLo and Lin-Manuel Miranda song, “Love Make The World Go Round” is a great anthem for each one of us right now and always! It’s time to wake up! Thanks for your boldness in sharing your heart on these important matters. I’m grateful that you did!
Brilliant! I started on the same path over the last week. I watched an interesting TedTalk on unconscious bias. Find it here: https://www.ted.com/talks/julia_galef_why_you_think_you_re_right_even_if_you_re_wrong. It’s a great reminder that our mind is a powerful tool and it’s just that …. A tool. We have to consciously make the effort to listen to others. We need to take a stand against polarization and open our hearts and minds for more understanding and less rhetoric. We need to celebrate our differences!
Thank you Kris. There seems so often to be such a big gap between practices of self care and engagement with the world. This is such a good start on how to close that gap, and how to think of those as connected practices.
xoxo
Very well said, Kris! I appreciate your thoughts because they are so true. We need to step up and take responsibility for the change we want to see. I came across a post from the police captain of Dallas who said they are hiring! Wow, I appreciate him saying that…there are so many ways we can make a change in this world. You can either participate physically, or do some internal work if that is needed.
nicely done. thanks for sharing this, and putting yourself “out there”.
Kris, I feel you hit the nail on the head with this writing! I know in my heart that there are more good humans than bad; it’s just that the bad ones get all the press! Thank you so much for spreading the good word.
Thank you for this, I totally agree!
love you Kris, and thank you for being there for all of us.
Thank you.
“Because while prayers and condolences are spiritually essential, they’re not enough. I’m tired of just praying (though I won’t stop).”
Amen, Kris!
Thank you for taking the the time to write this Kris. All of us can always do a little more, a little better to be part of the shift in the right direction. <3 ((hugs)) from one of your Canadian friends x
I love and appreciate you and your courage to take a step out of your comfort zone. It’s something we all need to do. I wish I had the answer to it all, but I don’t. The one thing I DO KNOW, came as a reminder from the universe through a movie this weekend – Evan Almighty. I have seen it several times and enjoyed it, but this time was different. It was the first time I watched it after being on my spiritual journey. There were a few parts that really hit me. One was where “God” said to Evan’s wife: “When you ask for something, is it God’s gift to just give it to you, or is the gift in presenting an opportunity and journey to get it?” . Then at the end Evan asked why God chose him as his messenger and God said,
“You said you wanted to change the world. You know how you change the world? …One act of random kindness.”
Let’s start there. If we all start small as a tiny pebble thrown in the ocean, we can make a big wave of change. Peace, love and narwhals to you all.
Thank you for addressing the elephant in the room! I know it was a risk for you to talk about this, but it can’t be ignored. Even though it’s not really a part of your normal soul-filled world, it is a huge part of our world, and I for one am glad to hear your loving perspective on all of the hatred and violence coming from everywhere else!!! I would love to place my vote with someone who is going to bring us peace and love, but unfortunately, our current candidates aren’t providing that. Kris for President 🙂
*our
Your words were a recipe for out souls. Thank you for sharing. I give three craps about what you have to say. 🙂
Thank you, Kris – I totally agree with you and I really appreciate that you took the time and effort to write down and share your thoughts on what’s going on in the world right now and really, what’s been going on for so long. I, too am feeling quite helpness and was just earlier thinking that there’s “nothing” I can do. Then I read what you had to say and was reminded that there’s plenty I can do: I can try to heal myself starting with my thoughts and question every time they’re not in line with who I want to be: a compassionate and kind person. I cannot expect the world to heal until I have at least tried to heal myself, which is hard enough. “Be the change…” Thanks again – Much love and warm hugs, Liv~
Thank you for using your voice. I’ve never been more proud of following you and your beautiful blog.
Thanks so much for taking the risk and writing about this. I might even take the risk and do the same!
You are wonderful!!
Well said Kris – love this! 🙂
Beautiful words you wrote, thank you for sharing! Lets start the movement to heal our world with love and understanding and not only to be real with others but ourselves as well.
xoxo
Nicole
You said it all….and beautifully. Thanks, Kris.
Dear Kris, everything you say is true (especially important: make use of our right to vote and, even more important, become experts in the subject we’re voting for, that is, let’s vote responsibly). However, I think we should try to change things to the better where we are able to do so: within ourselves, with our family and friends, our neighbours, our communities – the place where I live or work, the sometimes quarrulous choir where I sing, the school my child goes to. Many of us have a specific issue, being a chronic cancer patient, mine is a health issue. Having learned so much, having received so much, being so happy as I am today, I starteted my “Courageous Patient”-project with a little book, a website including a blog and accounts on Twitter and Facebook a year ago. Beside my job as a public relations officer at a public broadcasting station in Germany, beside my little family and my “health programme”, I held a seminar for patients, initiated articles in newspapers, have been invited for talks – fighting for a holistic healing approach, encouraging patients to take their heart into their hands and courageously seek their own path to health and a better life (with you, Kris, as a fabulous role model, of course!). You could say, Bettina is on her own, she won’t change anything. Actually, with regard to the feedback I get, it seems I can make a tiny difference … Now add up all these different aspects (including everyday things like sensible driving on the motorway), and then remember the famous Gandhi saying: “Be the change you want to see in the world”. And the world will change.
With love and gratitude, so true, Kris. Beautifully said. Thank you for this and all of your wisdom. Your suggestions, especially for online respect are a must in today’s world.
Well said Kris! Thanks for having the courage to post this.
Well said…Inspiring. Thank you!
First, never apologize for putting yourself out there. You have permission to be vulnerable, too. Thank you for your heartfelt response and thoughtful approach to a very difficult problem.
Have I ever told you that I love you? Because I do… and I respect you…and like you too!
Awesome Kris! As I watched Brian Williams, the ER surgeon in Dallas being interviewed last night, the thought that came to me is it starts with me. This is all so overwhelming that we become paralyzed and nothing changes. But if we each start by focusing on ourselves and how we can do our part to end the hatred, division, and anger, it will change! We are more powerful than we think. Keep praying and start doing.
We gravitate to you, Kris, for recipes and to feel uplifted, but we stay with you because you also offer depth and soul. Thank you for helping us to put words on this. I am better for them. xo
I am almost back to being my healthy, balanced, motivated self, thanks in no small part to You Kris, your kind insights and practical advice helped subtly but profoundly change me. You better believe now that I’m well I am going to be a gentle warrior for positive change, inwardly and outwardly. I spent years trying to regain my health, i fought fights on moral issues that cost me more than I could spare (often quite ineffectually because they were partially fueled by fear and anger) so I think that it’s more than OK to opt out for a time but ultimately we have to educate ourselves and, if we are able, we have to make a difference. Ignoring these alarming symptoms in our ailing societies is the same as ignoring them in ourselves, we do so at our great peril.
Kris…so beautifully stated. I agree and am glad you wrote this. xo
Thank you, beautiful Kris, for speaking out about this. ?
Thank you for being brave, Kris, to step out of your comfort zone and share your positive philosophical thoughts. I agree with your positions 100%, We all have more power than we know, when we unite for positive change.
Brilliantly said. Thank you, Kris. I hereby promise to do my part.
Thank you for this post Kris! I find myself really struggling these days; it is hard to remember we come from love when there seems to be so much hate and fear and anger in the world. I think you’ve written beautifully. I’m not sure what I can do to effect change, but I find myself being more conscious of how I talk and what I say (even ‘common’ expressions that people think nothing of can actually be quite polarizing!) and I actively seek out expressions of love and peace and togetherness that exist in the world. So I also would like to thank you for being part of that, reminding me that it is not all doom and gloom – that there still exists such grace in the world.
Thank you for writing this blog. I feel the same. I live in the UK and there is a huge divide between political views recently which is bringing up all the issues you are talking about. I’m hoping good will come out of this in the end but we have to make the first moves of bringing healing to our planet. With enough conscious people I believe we can X
Thank you so much for saying what I needed to hear. I’ve become so judgmental against those that don’t think like I do, and there’s nothing good that can come from that- it’s just divisive and more of what we already have too much of: the “us against them” mentality. Thanks for the reminder that the only way to win this is with love and compassion. I have some inner work to do, so that hopefully with my peaceful, brave demeanor (less angry and accusatory than I have been) I can be a better facilitator for change. Your writing affected my heart deeply. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Yes. Thank you Kris. Though, as a black person, I have had to cut people off who are racist but have been in my life because “you aren’t like the others.” They are harmful to me. But, to save my own life, I then have to transform the rage and anger into something useful.
Kris, I think you are wonderful. Thank you again.
Yes.
Thank you so much for courageously and articulately sharing the thoughts of, what I hope are, the majority of people. If we all can show respect for others in our day to day actions, those examples will surely turn the tide of violence.
“We are the ones we have been waiting for” Holy shit brilliant!!
That shook me to my core and I THANK YOU for sharing!!!
XO
Thank you Kris for sharing with clarity and great compassion your thoughts. It’s a ripple effect. Let’s let love ripple and let it begin with me, you, all of us. <3
Thank you for putting yourself out there. We need people like you with spheres of influence to help create an “entire societal shift.”
Perfectly said Kris!! ❤️❤️❤️????
PS: Bring a military draft on for both males and females and see how fast things will change when everyone is vested in our country vs. current volunteers of folk that love war, immigrants looking to fast track citizenship, students desiring education benefits and poor people having no where to work. Just a passing thought.
Beautifully said. So glad you wrote that. Thank you.
Thank you, Kris. Having lived thru personal tragedy and feeling alone, unsupported, and misunderstood, I get how people can become isolated, hateful, and desperate. I became that way even when, before my tragedy, I was the most loving person in the world. Tragedy easily divides us, causing a chasm between would-be friends, neighbors, colleagues, family and friends, church members, you name it… I had to get to a point where I consciously allowed tragedy to unite us (me and my peeps) instead of divide us. And, for me, that all started and ended with talking about it, refusing to stay isolated.
How is it even possible that we live in a world where people are getting shot dead, in front of children and loved ones, for reaching for an ID when asked, or asphyxiated when thought to be selling cigs to minors. And how can we even live in a world where people are not held accountable for those actions? We want peace, and we want justice when that desire for, and right to, peace is not honored.
The police in Dallas should never have been killed – that was a horrid, ugly, desperate crime that took innocent lives and created a wake of destruction. But is anyone surprised by it given the violent killings of black men by white police officers? Didn’t we know this was coming? It has to stop. On both sides, it has to stop. Every life is a gift, everyone is valuable and precious and in need of protection and justice and peace. Maybe we unite instead of divide, and maybe it starts and ends by talking about it. Maybe that is our action. Talking and loving. I don’t know, but I think it is worth a try.
Thank you for all your thoughts, that took a lot of your time and effort to express. You tackled the hard. You inspire me always. A full body yes to all your pleas. Btw, I am working on the garden to grow more to eat thanks to your various posts. Thank you for your honesty and true insight. YOU are wonderful.
Well said Kris. Here in the UK we have huge disunity stoked up by Brexit. While different, there are similarities to the USA as immigration and race are a big part of the argument. It seems as though it is a very angry time across the world. Only we, as individuals, can change this – by looking into our hearts and catching ourselves when we make prejudiced judgement on others by looking at their labels and not their humanity.
Thank you Kris I was feeling so much anger but your words make me feel different we all do need to work on ourselves one by one then we can work on getting along and respecting eachother.
Yes Kris it isn’t enough to just pray, we have to live in harmony with our prayers. We cannot pray for peace and then act violently, or pray for love of neighbor then hate our neighbor. There is one prayer that I personally look forward to being answered, that is found in Matthew 6:9,10 which in part says: ‘Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon the earth.’ Just imagine how wonderful life will be then. A heavenly government with Christ as ruler! Things being done right here like is done in heaven! No violence, no hatred, animals at peace, no harm to anyone or anything! Revelation 21: 3,4 ; Isaiah chapter 11 for more scriptural thoughts and answers to life’s big questions, please visit jw.org
Thank you for your thoughts… Have a beautiful day.
Hi sweet friend, The only wrong thing to do is nothing. Racial Conditioning is a dis-ease. It has existed individually and institutionally for long time. I participated in workshop on racial conditioning and it helped a lot. Take for instance in Florida we had Sambo restaurants (now Denny’s), we have Aunt Jemima pancakes, Uncle Ben’s converted rice. We have one month of black history month and one month of hispanic history month, etc., etc. We have the little ol’ lady at the ATM smiling at muscle white men while they are passing behind her and moving her pocketbook to other side when a person of color, even a teenage child of color pass. We have for profit prisons that incarcerate minor drug offenses while white color crime in our banking system is rewarded and not penalized for crimes. We in USA are number one arms exporter and then we wonder when our karma shows up in our school tragedies. We have a government for the money, lobbyist and highest bidder. Not a government of the people. Noam Chomsky in his documentary presents his observation of our original constitution and what was left out by the wealthy folks that declared that constitution. So geez, thank you almighty powers to give us a month and screw us the other eleven months. I personally look for merits in a person. That is most important to my beingness. We have PhD’s that do not have a clue to helping themselves and become Pied Pipper followers. USA is a young country that has a lot to learn. See Michael Moore’s documentary ‘Where Next to Invade.’ And now we have leaders constantly playing the ‘FEAR’ card and heck with running country proper. I prefer ‘Wisdom, Love and Generosity vs. Ignorance, Hate and Greed. Our young folk want change in USA. Why else would they desire an ol’ white secular Jew to lead our country. And black folk bought into the business as usual ‘black leadership ol’ school’ leaders of not supporting Bernie after all he has taken action in regarding race and veteran issues. ALL LOVE! 🙂
Each and every one of us needs to love and respect ourselves first and realize that under the skin and the religions and the language and the ethnicity, we are all the same; we are human. We need to get back to our civilized roots and not our caveman roots and realize that it takes love and compassion to move things in the right direction. We are brothers and sisters after all, and that should give us pause before we criticize, condemn or attack another living person.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for having the courage to post your thoughts. As usual , you seek to bring out the best in us! You are spot on that the solution begins with each and everyone of us exploring our hearts and minds for beliefs that prevent us from loving each other. Our hope lies in reaching across the divide and embracing our connectedness.
Hi Kris – I have felt the same way like you – women, finance, poverty, gay rights, violence, war, human-trafficking etc etc – we really have to examine ourselves in a gentle and heartfelt way, because it will not be nice. Somewhere we are part of this isolation and segregation – every thought, every little action – no matter how tiny – does saw a seed – my gut feeling is that many things we now feel would be “loosing face” or in any other way inflict with our pride or prestige are exactly those we need to do. It is too easy to just be angry at something or someone and, like you said, just write them off. We all live in this world, no matter spiritual orientation, and we can’t stay in our own little bubbles any more – we need to come together – in so many other ways than we imagined so far… and opened up in so many new ways…
Thank you for your eloquent, honest and heartfelt message, Kris. I agree that we all have a role to play in making our world a kinder, more peaceful place. And it starts with looking inside ourselves and asking the tough questions. Blessings to you.
Well said, Kris. We all must take responsibility for our lives. Stop blaming. Stop the hate and judgments. Brava!
Such a wonderful, eloquent article Kris!! I felt so much comfort in reading what others have posted in response to your article. My heart and soul are uplifted because I do believe there are many, many of us out there who feel as you do. To make the change in the world, may be as simple as a kind word, a kind gesture. To make our world inviting to those who suffer. I, too have work to do on myself. It’s the awareness that makes the difference in how we act and respond to others. Just baby steps…
Thank you for you beautiful and thoughtful words. Wise and well said!
Wonderful! Thank you for acknowledging publicly we have a problem with racism, sexism, bigotry, and violence in our world. I love your logical suggestion of only putting positive, healing comments online and type only things we would say in person. We must learn to live with, and embrace, our differences-not be polarized by them.
Kris, since so many of us look to you for – health advice/encouragement – perhaps the situation that you’ve written so well about, could be put in a – health perspective? – I’m reminded of what Dr. Bernie Siegel, M.D., wrote in his book, “Love, Medicine & Miracles”. Dr. Siegel – “It’s easier to hate, but – healthier – to love”. – Whatever hate, prejudice, etc., is felt toward someone, those – unhealthy feelings – are in the – body – of the person feeling them. It’s like the well known comment about someone drinking poison, and expecting the other person to die. What are the healthy emotions to feel? – Compassion, love. The question everyone needs to consider is, “do we want to be healthy?”, if so, what emotions/feelings are we carrying in our mind, heart, body?
Mahalo?
Live in compassion! Is my action. It is easy to have compassion for those that suffer or have lost. Harder for me to have and show compassion for those who have caused my pain, who are angry and destructive, but yet my souls tells me this is where my compassion is needed most. I need to love and find compassion for those in this world that cause me the most sorrow and pain. Those I so disagree with. I feel my answers and solutions for me lie there. Love thy enemy. I need to think and act deeply from this point of life. It to me is yelling at us to address. Love one another. Love thy enemy.
Well said, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your insight and courage. I am passing this along. I am also going to self reflect!
Peace,
Eileen
Kris,
Bless your sweet soul for writing this! I was so broken-hearted about all the violence and bloodshed last week I just had to go to bed for a few days! I wept at my altar and ask for guidance! As unicorn light workers we have to speak up in peace! And it is true that all this hate is the cancer of America!
There is not a day that goes by that I do not think about you and your journey with Cancer! And how you found the grace to transform it into beauty!
You inspire me to do the same living with Lyme! I believe these illness experiences keep us digging deep into our well of discernment and peace!
We are the ones we have been waiting for! And as we look into the regions of our souls we can transform all the judgements, fears and lack of love! It’s daily work! This is our responsibility as human beings!
You are a great teacher and agent of change, I want to hear what you have to say on thes extremely important matters! You speaking out gives me the courage to do that same! I’ll keep praying too!!
So much LOVE,
Amanda Christan
Amen!!!
Thank you, Kris! I agree with everything you said and am grateful that you are courageous enough to speak out. It always starts with me. When I take inclusion, tolerance and compassion into the world I’m surprised how often I get that reflected back to me. Thank you
Thank you for challenging me to change my perspective and look for a way to get involved in the healing. Yes, prayers are essential. But action with prayer moves mountains. I appreciate you and all you offer the world. 🙂
Thank you, Kris. Let us choose to be light and love bringers, to have the tough conversations and to ask the tough questions! We must go forward together. Everyday counts and everyday is a choice. Blessed Be! K???
Kris, so many won’t risk anything to speak up or out. You strengthen your tribe when you peel off the moldy layers of the onion. We follow you not only for tasty recipes and health knowledge, but because the message of peace and LOVE eminate from everything you do. We follow you for your positive energy and for the hope you instill in each of us that we can somehow make a difference.
Lately, I’ve been challenged on all fronts to think deeply about how I judge others and while I thought that I didn’t, well…I am a gay woman living my life with my partner raising 2 boys, 1 who has Autism, and I thought we had all the hate and mid-understanding thrown at us, then I did something that made me sad. I couldn’t believe I shelled out what I feel hit me on an almost daily basis. What an eye-opener. We fall into patterns, whether raised that way or learned, we must take a step back and acknowledge our own faults in order to change them.
We are sitting on a time-bomb of sorts. Our foes are laughing at how we are imploding, saving them the trouble of defeating us. Now is the time for us the join hands, across our predjudices, and show the world how it can be done. We need folks like you to step out and share your loving messages. We need folks like me to own up to making mistakes and ask for forgiveness. And we need to ask what can we do to help make the change happen.
Love begets love, hate begets hate. Lets spread more love. Lets lift messages like yours here, higher!
Thank you Kris, as always, for being you.
This is so beautiful and heart-felt. It’s hard to talk about these deep-seated, tough issues. But you nailed it — with kindness and compassion! Seems like nowadays the loudest voices (often filled with hatred) always get the attention. But we need to hear more of the gentle, kind voices (like you), and talk to each other like civil human beings. So, thank you sweet Kris and kudos to you for your bravery!!
Yes!! Thank you for eloquently sharing the call to collectively stand united in more love, rather than hate. This kind of power is the portal to possibility.
Well said. I appreciate your perspective Kris. Thank you for taking the risk. Your comments and suggestions really are part of what it takes for true wellness and vibrant health. Our thoughts, and feelings and beliefs can be as toxic as the chemicals we try to avoid and overcome our sometimes necessary exposure to-like in the air we breathe. In the 12 step programs one of the bits of wisdom I heard was …”If I am not the problem there is no solution”. We only have control and power over ourselves so it points us to look within, at ourselves, our lives and to examine the very things you are talking about. To “clean our own house” first and foremost. remove the blocks that prevent unity within and we are far better to create and connect with others to create unity in our families, communities and beyond. I am impatient for change as well. I also recognize I am a work of art in progress and so is the world I live in.
Kris, your questions are more than welcome. Myself and so many outside US are watching in disbelief how, in the name of democracy and freedom of speech, the US is flooded with guns, drugs, pornography and anything that sells. I am watching a whole nation (followed by some in the rest of the world) getting sicker despite the highest buget for healthcare. People need to eat better and grow up with more loving values. The mass media could promote such values. I dont believe that they wouldnt sell – people need better health and more love like we need air.
Guns for the population? No no no.
Love to you and your beautiful community.
Instead of praying for peace (which means we think there is no peace ) we must be peace. We must be what we want to see in the world. There is an awesome website called Heart Math Institute that scientifically shows you how to be that. It talks about heart intelligence. It is also linked to The Global Initiative, which asks you to use your heart math skills and participate in global initiatives. Check it out. Yes we can change the world and it starts with us (me). Cheers!
Thank you for sharing you ideas. I agree it is up to us to raise our own vibration as much as possible each day. When I go out into the world I set the intention to send love and light to everyone I meet with a smile or a compliment. If I can make their day even a little better I raise their vibration. As more of us live in a higher vibration the world is changing. When I see someone who has road rage, for instance I do my best not to judge them but rather offer compassion and kindness with my energy. I believe love, kindness and compassion is the way we heal the world. It starts with each one of us.
Hey treasures and Brave hearts, it starts at home, with our own families, our friends, with our neighbours, with that person at work, the staff at the store, the drive down the road. Be the pebble that makes the ripple…think and say and feel the meaning of namaste and we will all be a ripple meeting around the globe and the tide turns to love and acceptance for all. There are more coming with us everyday. We are strong. Be faithful. I believe x
Beautifully written, Kris. Thank you for your words and inspiration.
Hi Kris. Thank you for expressing your thoughts. While I cannot relate to being discriminated against because of my race or my role in society, or what it feels like to have a loved one murdered because of their differences, I can relate to pain and suffering, and I focus my mind to empathizing at this level and feel such compassion for all the sorrow and broken hearts.
I feel so privileged to feel safe in life, and I’m very aware many people do not live feeling safe…in their home town or when they are in so many other places in the world.
Here are my thoughts, and I’d love to hear how you feel about them because I resonate with your message of thriving in life despite challenges (I understand, not from the perspective of living with a chronic illness, but from the perspective of growing up in a disability-centered household, and then in later years, caring for parents who lived with chronic illness…so much living took place and I learned so much…different conversation!)
My thoughts…I’m painfully aware of the sorrow due to the violence individual people are choosing to inflict on others. I can put my “2 cents” in about “love over fear” however, I’m aware that this isn’t as helpful for so many people who are currently extremely angry – justifiably so, and the question remains – a question that we all ask ourselves in one way or another every day of our lives “What now? What am I going to do?” Given “what is”, what now? THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION BY EACH INDIVIDUAL PERSON IS WHAT WILL HAVE THE GREATEST IMPACT ON OUR WORLD.
The individual people who chose violence as a response – whether subconsciously or consciously – are INDIVIDUALS. What is challenging, because it contributes to states of confusion, is that individual people also live different roles in our society that do have an impact, as well as prejudices that run deep and often people don’t even realize how much their inner beliefs based on a prejudice trigger their actions. However, when we focus on each other’s roles in life or are run by a prejudice above our common humanity, it’s easy to fall into actions based on our judgments of others and how we believe they “should be” versus having compassion for others for who they are and for what is. Each person is “right” in their personal views, which can be debated all day long to no avail.
My instincts tell me that what changes the world and brings people together are actions born from compassion. It cuts out all the confusion about “who’s right” and forms common ground from which to build and focus on solutions.
WE ALL KNOW WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE HUMAN. We all know what it feels like to be in pain, sorrow, grief, happiness, sadness, enthusiasm, hopefulness, hopelessness, etc. Knowing this, helps us have more compassion and relate to people in a different way. It helps us stop debating how people “should” be, and see people for who they are – imperfect beings living in this world right here, right now, who are one of us, all together, whether we personally like it or not. This is what it means to “accept what is”.
Anger has its place if it moves us to compassionate action, otherwise, it’s such an extreme lose-lose when anger motivates us to violent action. We all see the devastation this causes. The recent violence in America stirring up all sorts of feelings for people – these murders were done at the hands of a couple of INDIVIDUALS, even though, like I said before, also have roles in our society which impact all of us, i.e. role of “father”, “mother”, “son”, “daughter”, “police officer”, “provider”, “man”, “woman”, “politician”, etc. – which triggers more thoughts of what we expect of these roles and our beliefs of how others “should be”. Then of course the impact on us all of the prejudices that still exist when we see someone who looks different than we’re comfortable with, whether it be the color of their skin or different lifestyle or different behavior, etc. and react based on what we see versus who they really are. Being “reactive” versus “responsive” in life usually hurts us, and the ripple effect hurts others too.
Now, again, the question is, the question always will be for each of us, “What now? What am I going to do?” Which brings me to a suggestion, as a surely inadequate contribution in terms of appeasing all the anger, but a contribution nonetheless. A friendly acquaintance of mine, Chris Orrey, wrote the below post, in part, on her FB page. She is a retired police officer. Her suggestion, which I adopt:
“To my friends who are cops, I urge you to get to know as many black men as you can. Teach your sub-conscious mind not to react to race and gender, but to facts and behavior. To my friends who are black, go on a ride-along with a police officer, preferably a white male police officer. I believe we have far more in common than we do differences. And I believe, as Martin Luther King, Jr. said, that hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.”
EACH OF US CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE simply by examining our belief systems, being as honest as we possibly can about prejudices we hold (that we’ve been taught without our consent by our caregivers and society and experiences), then with each admission of what causes us discomfort, go out with an open mind and heart and get to know someone who triggers us (regardless of why they do), i.e. a police officer, black person, disabled person, teenager, and dare I say an imprisoned murderer – any human being that you notice triggers your mind to immediate judgment and closes your heart. COMPASSION IS KEY. This isn’t about making friends, it’s about opening your mind and heart so YOU can contribute to positive change in the world. Whatever blocks us, closes us off to our potential to effect the kind of change that we’re all screaming out for.
Lastly, and something very important to mention – before making a decision on what you will DO, please spend some focused time on choosing how you want to BE. This REALLY helps strengthen your compassionate mindset from which many great things are born. While we wait for our leaders to do something, we can each do something ourselves…little by little, day by day, hour by hour….choose again and again how you want to be and take action from that place. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” (Quote by Margaret Mead)
There you are, Kris! My thoughts born from my deep care of all human beings and our world. xoxo Lea
Lea, thank you for your powerful words, the thoughtful suggestions for examining our own judgments, and the directive to make whatever individual positive change we can, which will eventually affect the healing of the whole. I am grateful for your heart and your eloquence. Namaste, Sarah
And of COURSE, thank you Kris for opening the door to these tough conversations…we look to you as a guide in more things than health and wellness <3 xo
YES!!! You’re very inspirational, Kris, and offer lots of practical help. I’ve referred you to friends of mine – anyone who is getting into eating healthy and holistic practices. I LOVE your recent book as it’s helping me get more fruits into my system…I’d rather eat a cookie than fruit normally 🙂 Lea
Thank you, Sarah, for taking the time to reply. It’s encouraging! I do generally have a positive outlook always thinking in terms of “personal responsibility”. It’s always served me, and I really do believe each individual can affect the world…because of the ripple effect of each of our actions. Thanks again for acknowledging my words. Love always, Lea
Amen sister, very well said!!
YOU are wonderful. You are not just needed for your recipes. We need ALL of your wisdom. So thank you for sharing. Sending love and thanks. Xo
Amen sister! Very well said!
It’s always scary to put yourself “out there”, but we all really do need to face up to today’s challenges with a humble heart.
Everyone, remember to be the change you want to see. Spread love today. Make someone smile. Make a conscious effort to do good and be true.
Thank you for allowing the space for a powerful conversation like this!
Thank you, As always you find he right words. I am writing this from Germany where we face racism on a different level, but probably for similar reasons.
Take care and thank you for putting yourself out there,
Susanne
Brava, Kriss! Beautifully said, and necessary to hear.
These recent events make me think that the only reason these tragedies are occurring is because it has to get worse
before it can get better. But then I think, “how much worse does it have to get?” Haven’t we had enough shootings already to control guns? Do we need yet another series?
I refuse to give up hope though, especially when I know there are people like you spreading the love. Thank you.
Dear Kris,
Thank you for “putting yourself out there”. Your point of view is one coming from wisdom and kindness, of which we need more of in this word.
I will do my part and also continue to pray.
Thank you for being you!
You are wonderful!
Thank you for speaking and stepping up. I had a moment of Grace this week that I wish I could articulate like you. I will just say the humanity and love was palatable. I may not change the world but I can change in any moment my one to one connections. Envisioning a ripple effect as each of us at least make that commitment. Peace and Love to all especially the children.
Thank you for sharing. I completely agree though sometimes i lose my way. This is a helpful reminder of what to cling on to.
Thank you – beautifully put. Love and light to the world
much love and peace Thank you
Yes! I so agree, i’ve had a hard time last week as I felt so angry with everything that’s going on and I’m not personally affected anymore than most people are. If you can’t find your compassion about some of the later events from last week you know you need to do something to change the way you feel in your heart. I went back to doing yoga and immersed myself in my herbal studies which I truly love and brings such peace because that is a much better way to approach all that is going on. I have been starting to clean up my newsfeed on FB, people are entitled to their opinions but if it poisons my mind it’s got to go. I do believe that it is going to get much worse before it (hopefully) is getting better, there is no short term solution, not with how divided the US and most European countries are, not to mention all the terrorist actions around the world. Hopefully we all find a way for ourselves how to cope with this and keep love in our hearts. Namaste
Well said, Kris. You’ve used your voice to help people heal, now use it to help humanity heal. You have the power.
We’re all behind you.
Thank you for being brave and putting this out there!
BRAVO!!!
I can’t thank you enough for posting this. So thoughtful, so light filled and hopefully it inspires some change needed.
Thank you, Kris, for this heartfelt reminder to look within.
Perhaps if we make an effort to look within, we can do more than simply breed understanding. We can cultivate a mentality that appreciates all beings, even in the absence of understanding.
Namaste <3
Thank you sister. Thank you.
Well said Kris. I’ve been getting quite a lot of marketing from you recently and this article is a wonderful change in energy
Kris — I am 100% in agreement with your letter! I’ve lived a rich and interesting life that has not been exempt from adversity, tragedy and war. I’ve also experienced the utmost unconditional love and understanding that carried me through these times. My greatest lesson in life has been that is isn’t what happens to us that is most critical but what and how we decide to deal with it! There has to be real action to bring about real change. You are a great and strong warrior for the positive. Please continue to let your voice be heard.
Wow Kris, you are not alone in these feelings. So glad you had the courage to express them. I am finding it harder and harder to stay positive and keep my thoughts attracting goodness and abundance. As each week, each month goes by I feel I am being dragged down further and further. There is so much potential for love in this world and yet it seems hate and prejudice continues to have the upper hand. Prejudice is not just big things, like against religious beliefs or skin color, but even smaller issues like homelessness and age. I am not sure what’s happening or why, I only know it is scary and difficult to fight against, but fight we must. If we give up there will be no future, no good future for my children.
I am frustrated with praying and asking for help, but I too will continue. And I will speak up as well, so don’t you stop. You have my love and support.
Kris – Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I really appreciate your honesty and have felt several of the same struggles you mention. The conversations around these topics are scary because I fear the differences in my friends and families ideas will divide us. I realize I need to work more on myself, and be confident in speaking my thoughts. Love and kindness are a gift I can give to everyone, and remebering that during these difficult conversations, will help raise my consciousness and that of our world.
Thanks Kris. Totally agree that unity is the answer in tragic times, not more division. War, crime, hate could not manifest in a world of unity, love and kindness. Thats what we CAN focus on in our own lives to make a difference in our world. #kindnessrevolution
I wish more people felt like you do. Your article is an inspiration and thanks so much for writing it.
Kris, you’ve said what is in my heart, and in many of our hearts. As painful as it is, we must face the ugliness in our world and confront it head on with love. This is not a time to retreat into ourselves because it’s “too hard” to see and feel it. We must pray for healing, and let that healing light spill out into the world. As Marianne Williamson said in a recent lecture, “My mind holds only what I think with God.” This is my mantra, and I pray now that all of our minds hold only what we think with God.
Kris, I agree with all
the comments written above this post of mine (first 9 responses) and especially your letter to us.
I’m grateful you stepped out of your comfort zone to write words that express so well our discomfort, fears and sorrows over what is happening in this time on this planet.
You have brought more clarity to what I’ve been trying to grasp and speak too and I’m
sure many more us. You helped me to not feel so alone, fearful and helpless.
You spoke so well to the heart of the issues.
I’m so glad you are putting it out there for all of us to work on ourselves. To raise our own concsciousness to the collective and lift the vibration of the world to love with love through working on ourselves. That is something each one of us can do and do right now.
Thank you again for walking through the fear of speaking up and then doing it so beautifully. Blessings love and light -Viv
You really moved me. I adore this post and respect you even more for taking action in this moment.
Dear, dear Kris….
You inspire me so much with your wisdom, kindness and love. You have absolutely nailed it with this and thank you for taking the risk. Anyone who judges your words negatively are who we all need to reach. Thank you for sharing what is in your heart and thank you for being you. I become a better person each time I see words like this. You are lovely. Love, Sue.
Sweet Kris, thank you for this. Heart felt, wise, true and a calling to action. You might feel your words are a risk but I feel it is much more of a risk to stay silent and complacent and numb. We need everyone’s compassion, perseverance, clear seeing and heart to find our way through, raise each other up and heal. If not now, when? We all matter. We all need each other. Please keep building your courage muscles and speaking from your heart. Your bravery gives strength and inspiration for others to follow their own callings, and together we will rise. Much love, ShannonRose
You spoke words that I believe are in so many of our hearts. I agree wholeheartedly that we need to examine the energy we are each putting into this world if we are ever to make a real change. That’s how we can begin to make a real difference. It starts with each one of us. Thank you for having to courage to write this. I am going to link to the article from my website that’s coming soon.
Thank you, Kris. Well said. I feel almost hopeless until I read something that aligns with my thoughts. I just don’t know what I can do to help move our society out of this place we find ourselves in. I know I need to work on myself to rid myself of my own frustrated feelings, so perhaps that is the first step.
Yes, Kathy…I agree…the first step needs to come from within!
Yes to working on ourselves , that comes first. But I think it’s equally important to start helping someone else, starting to make a positive impact for someone else, however small or big it may be. And maybe we manage to inspire someone that way, like Kris now just inspired many I’m sure. That will have the ripple effect we need in the world. I’ll start thinking right away how I can be of help…and in that process I’ll surely have the opportunity to work on my self at the same time ? <3
This is exactly what we need to hear dear. Thank you.
Beautiful words, Kris! <3
Thank you, Kris. So true. So true.
Kris – it is your genuine, holistic approach to life that is inspiring – thank you for taking the time to write this. We need more people to speak up and speak out.