Taking care of ourselves requires taking care of our minds: our thinking, our feelings and our spiritual connection to All That Is.
Building in time to think, to prepare for each day, to problem solve ways to reduce daily work, financial and relationship stress - that protects your sanity.
The primary stressor for many, since nine-one-one, is the concern over what's happening in our country.
Our culture makes people feel crazy because it:
Places the primary focus on work, not on our spiritual connection or our children and families
Presents us with expectations that are not family friendly.
Advocates goals that most people will never be able to reach
Just plain lies. In the past 5 years we've been overhwelmed with lies from the government, churches, the educational system and the justice system. It's hard to know who to trust now.
Does not admit to problems that we know in our hearts exists: i.e. the high cancer rates from environmental pollution, racism, economic unfairness, unequal medical treatment, etc.
Presents us with the same kinds of problems within our families. Living in a time of change may make many feel incompetent, dissatisfied, unsure of themselves. That only adds to childhood issues, expectable life stage problems, and unexpected, extraordinary challenges, like losing a job.
Life's tough but it doesn't have to be. However, in our culture it may take extraordinary effort to do what may offer a great deal of support: keep life simple.
Black folks are always being accused of paranoia. In fact, we question "reality" when what we experience conflicts with what we are told. The truth of a situation forms the core of good mental health. Young children want to know "What is the truth about what you expect from me?" in order that they may direct their behavior to please their adult caretakers. To maintain our sanity and security, we want to know, "What is the truth about our society and our place in it?" so that we can effect positive change that helps all of America's children be safe and righteous.
When your gut level instincts conflict with all that you
see about you, raise your sights and look in the near beyond. Look closely at both sides
of an issue. Question both sides. Be strong, wait & watch. Step to the Light. Reassure
your mind that as a result of your information- seeking you may then feel different from
the herd.
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