The three quotes above are just a few of Akkad’s devastating claims. I recommend you read the book; it is so honest, unarguably true, and urgent.
They struck me hard because I just finished it during a difficult time in my own life. I’ve shared with you previously that what’s going on in the world has really affected me. I feel the daily challenge of “finding my Zen,” which, for me, means achieving a state of inner peace, calm, and focus. It’s about being centred, grounded, free from stress and anxiety… no matter what’s going on around me.
It’s one thing to be able to do this when things are relatively peaceful around me. It’s another thing to accomplish this during difficult and challenging times.
Like Lisa’s folks from Alabama used to say: “It’s hard to drain the swamp when you’re up to your ass in alligators.”
These are difficult and challenging times with lots of swamps and alligators.
I’m thinking a lot about why.
Let me ramble for a second why I think so.
One of the big reasons is that I need to face the facts. Let’s be honest here, I keep saying to myself.
For example:
After the Holocaust, we proclaimed, “Never again!” We also said it after Rwanda. And yet… several active genocides are happening in the world right now.
I’m shocked at how quickly the USA/Canada relationship has changed. I have family and friends and had speaking opportunities down there, but now I can’t go because of one man’s whims.
The economic uncertainty I’m seeing many people suffer from is heartbreaking. And yes, it affects me, of course. Because who wants to buy art when they need bread?
It is becoming increasingly obvious to me that power is only self-interested. Its utmost concern is survival.
I remember years ago reading William Stringfellow, who played a huge role in my life, that the principalities’ and powers’ number one goal is self-preservation. For example, the Post Office might claim that its number one goal is to deliver mail. However, the real number one concern is its own security. It has to exist first before it can deliver.
I had a similar eye-opening, revelatory ah-hah moment when I read Krishnamurti’s claim that the brain’s number one priority is the protection of the organism. I might think I care about others. But is it possible that my brain’s number one concern is just keeping me alive? And how this applies to changing my mind to a new paradigm… well… that’s a whole other ballgame.
Then, reading Akkad’s claim that those who enjoy the fruits of power aren’t interested in a new and better world. Only those who suffer under the boot of power want that. Yikes! We are blunted and blinded by our privilege.
Then, finally, reading Akkad say that the violence isn’t an aberration of the system, but is a natural and organic outcome of the system… that shook me. It reminded me of the philosopher Slavoj Žižek’s claims I read in one of his books (I can’t remember which one) that the sexual abuse of boys rampant in the priesthood isn’t an irregularity of the Church, but actually an organic part of the priest culture. Ouch! Like spiritual abuse… it isn’t a mistake but an extension of the system called the Church.
I know, heavy thoughts for heavy times.
So… how am I finding my Zen? I’m going to stick to my already Zen-ish regimen…
Contemplation. Journaling. Forest bathing. Working out. Running. Rucking. Healthy diet. Making art, music, and love. Being with loved ones. Hanging out with Lisa. A nice glass of wine or whiskey once in a while. (Even writing this, I am aware of how much privilege it takes to be able to do this.)
But… interacting with my wonderful friends like you online is one of the beautiful things I enjoy too. It moves me, builds me up, and encourages me to keep going. Thank you!
