". . . it becomes clearer and clearer that we're all in the same boat and failure to realize and respond to this will inevitably result in us all being doomed to sink."

In this episode of The Missing Conversation, Robert is joined by Mark Gerzon, founder of the Mediators Foundation. Mark is also a dedicated activist in the movement for a diverse, inclusive civil structure and transpartisan politics.

Robert and Mark explore the three elements of psycho-politics. Politics is human behavior, and it's not the best idea to separate the two as they are two distinct yet intertwined aspects of humanity.

The first essential element of psycho-politics is our individual and collective tendency to want to take care of ourselves, our loved ones, and our favoritism to those closest to us. But it's important to take a step back and see the bigger picture. If we are only taking care of ourselves, who is taking care of those in the greatest need? The planet? Our ecosystem?

Robert and Mark also touch upon our relationship and view of money and its impact on psycho-politics. We're called upon to contemplate how we really use our money — where do we spend most of it? Do we have a natural inclination to share some with those who are not close to us personally but come from difficult circumstances? If we don't have enough, what is our attitude towards money? Are we doing the best we can with what we have and how to give ourselves and our families the best possible life?

The third aspect of psych-politics that ties everything together is a contemplation of balance. How can we take care of ourselves and our planet together? How can we truly engage in the question 'What does balance mean for this year?' to care for ourselves and others while realizing the imminent dangers of economic inequality, global warming, war, etc.?

The two also cover their experiences growing up, being drafted for the war, initiating a draft resistance, and coming to an understanding of how to use their ideas to make concrete positive change. This is where we, as listeners and readers, can see how much of what we think, do, and feel comes from what we have been taught in limited ways how we can really take care of ourselves, those we love, and our planet.

Mark's varied life experiences — from his parents' heritage, religious beliefs, education, political leanings, and a growing understanding of the world — have shaped the work he has done throughout his life, does today, and the specific causes he works to support. These different aspects of his life meshing together are his connection to humanity, or as Robert calls it, a synthesis of the heart.

Read the transcription and listen to this episode on The Global Bridge Foundation website.