Patterns of Belonging

One ongoing pattern in my life is aloof cynicism. This kept me safe in the dangerous social climate of my youth, but has managed also to keep me isolated and feeling alone (especially in the aftermath of the pandemic). I'd like to cultivate a sense of wider belonging and usefulness, and an acceptance of my community as they are - community is the key to feeling an being effective

Agenda:

1. Read "The Earth Keeper's Handbook"

2. Set intentions

3. Proaction and reciprocity plans

4. Abundance journal

1. Read "The Earth Keeper's Handbook":

I've just begun this book by Loren Swift (2019), subtitled "Assuming Leadership in a New World." The premise is that lack of care for each other (people) results in lack of care for the earth. "This book details the practical steps to shift the paradigm internally from conflict to cooperation and to make the same shift in relationships and in group endeavors." Well, that is the work I need to do this fall and winter.

The first section is The Way In, and Chapter 2 is The Story of Belonging. She talks about the mind - a potent agent of change. And it is like a wild horse that we must train in order to guide it to our true purpose.

I've been looking at this same idea from different aspects lately. In Ongo, it's about the trauma that informs our core beliefs, and in Present Moment Awareness, it's about how our beliefs seem so real but we must question them, because they limit me.

And to feel comfortable in my own skin and at home in this universe, I must cultivate self-compassion, and try to understand how my mind works. "As with any wild or rightened thing, compassion is the universal language of understanding." 

I must name the stories I hold and the patterns of relating that repeat in my life. "Our patterns establish themselves to give us the best possible chance to stay intact..." but I might have patterns that helped me to belong in my family that are no longer useful.

2. Set intentions:

Earlier this week I brainstormed some wild and crazy ideas for the end of this October and going forward, and today it's time to set some intentions for action. I've written just two intentions, the ones I might act on today, and will write more later.

I intend to invite abundance into my life, and into the world, by cultivating an abundance consciousness; that is, I will acknowledge the blessings I have already, find a multitude of ways to express my gratitude, get clear about what blessings I want to see for the world, and challenge myself to help to create them, because if I can truly believe that there’s enough for everybody, I will find ways to make it so.

I intend to be diligent with my part of the work of our Big Building Project - namely, stay on top of the details (communicating, ordering, scheduling, reserving) the vision and design (finding plans and ideas), and my pieces of the actual work - usually as a helper, but also painting, clearing, cleaning, and digging, so that we will have a clean orderly driveway area, a snug and warm house, and a space ready for our hot tub by mid-November!

I intend to lead the newly formed Earthcare Action group using the theme that the group is excited about - Our Garden, Our Earth  - listening to the ideas that arise, and where the energy is greatest, and suggesting actions that build community and have the greatest impact for the earth. I will also write and plan my own kind of education and craftivism that is tangential, and find ways for us to plug in to the bigger Quaker community of Earthcare action, as well as local faith groups. Community is the key to feeling and being effective.

 

2. Proaction and reciprocity plans:

On Wednesdays I often journal a bit about the future, and my dreams and goals: What GREAT things do I want to accomplish? How will I serve people? How will I use my talents? How will I stretch myself? How can I become an “island of excellence”? What is essential?

Then I try to define achievable, meaningful goals and prioritize the goals and tasks with the greatest long-term impact.

This next week I hope to:

1. Research actual butterflies to try to feed in my garden, and plan plantings; begin to plant and transplant; write how to plant a butterfly garden.
2. Write this week's action newsletter, and find ways to for us to connect to QEW.
3. Draft a new Earth Care pamphlet for Nov. 2.
4. Write an agenda and a plan of action for the fall and winter, and schedule first steps for the Earthcare Action Group's Nov. 2 meeting.
5. Write about regenerative gardening and leaving a wild winter garden.
6. Prepare to make butterfly tags together on Nov. 2
7. Prepare a sample neighbor letter for Habitat Haven.

4. Abundance Journal:

To attract abundance into my life (and into the world), I need an abundance consciousness: That is, I need to be aware of the abundance already in my life, connect with it, feel grateful for it, and be ready to accept more of it. 

Abundance consciousness opens my mind and helps me to operate at a higher-level; I see my prospects clearly and welcome obstacles as opportunities. When I believe there’s enough for everybody, I will take it as a challenge to figure out how to make it so; I will work harder to create a bright future for myself, my family, and my world.

I start with a few minutes of quiet meditation to expand my awareness of what I want for myself and for others in my life. “Expansion is the great friend of abundance. It brings in the light, opening up new possibilities. In a relaxed, open state, your awareness sees farther, and life isn’t so confined.” (Deepak Chopra)

Then I write very short, simple answers to these queries:

1. What do I want today, for myself and for others?

Today I want us to find a greater sense of community and effectiveness within the Interfaith Earthkeeper group.

2. What step can I take today towards abundance?

Come to the meeting prepared to share and help with IFEK actions.

3. What one thing could I create today, to expand abundance in the world?

Opportunities for 2-year-old autonomy, along with building new shelves.