We can understand our social pain by considering the nervous system, just think of it as a collective amygdala hijack!  Threat is pressing us to live in an alarm state and then we get used to it, as if it’s normal to be so divided, hopeless and disdainful to those who are holding different positions in the world. We need to cultivate secure (mature) relating to move ourselves back into a social, relational place that makes us more generous, compassionate and able to work with complexity to stay engaged to solve some of these pressing world and community issues. Keep hope alive!

Ann and Sue delve into the pressing emotional and social challenges confronting our world today. They examine the impact of divisive political rhetoric, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, collective distrust, and widespread trauma on individuals and society as a whole. Emphasizing the necessity of self-awareness and accountability, they underscore the role each person plays in contributing to collective healing and regulation. Throughout their conversation, Ann and Sue stress the importance of vulnerability, genuine connection, and the pursuit of healing as essential components of addressing systemic issues and promoting relational solutions. They also tackle the complexities of polarization, advocating for open-mindedness, nuance, and empathy in navigating ideological differences and fostering constructive dialogue. Explore the transformative potential of emotions like anger and the power of connection and love in driving positive societal change.

1:42 – Reflecting on current events and polarization 

4:40 – Sue’s bug analogy from the book 

7:55 – Understanding our reactivity 

10:15 – We have to go inward and look inward 

15:25 – Ann’s anecdote of sitting with the discomfort

17:44 – Tools to “hang in there” and to try to stay regulated

18:46 – Explanation of the “certainty virus” 

30:17 – Taking responsibility for our part 

32:23 – The need for vulnerability and safety 

35:15 – Cultivating safety around you 

37:55 – Letting anger inform 

48:34 – Holding our own individually and collectively

50:46 – Keeping hope alive 

58:31 – Recognizing the signs of collectiveness and collective activation

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