How to embrace interdependence and expand our circle of care
America is currently facing a deep and troubling divide. This ongoing strife affects many aspects of daily life. Many individuals seem to focus narrowly on their personal happiness, often ignoring how their actions impact the community around them.
The idea of interconnectedness is central to many wisdom traditions throughout history. These teachings urge us to care for one another. Love, at its core, is about looking after the well-being of those around us.
It involves being aware of and responding to the needs and feelings of others. This includes practicing empathy and showing genuine concern for their experiences.
The word "spirituality" comes from a term meaning "breath." This reflects the life force that flows through us and connects us to the world. Breath signifies our interaction with the environment. Our existence relies heavily on the oxygen provided by trees and the oceans.
Therefore, how we treat our planet ultimately influences our own lives. During a visit to Greenland, I was struck by the refreshing feeling of inhaling clean air and drinking pure, unpolluted water.
Understanding our interdependence can challenge our desire to be independent. Many cling to personal beliefs that limit empathy and hinder openness toward life and others.
Spirituality involves embracing our existence as beings that weave together body and spirit. This understanding highlights our sacred connection to both fellow humans and the natural world. Transpersonal psychology aims to bring spirituality into the modern understanding of psychology, acting as a bridge between the two realms.
When our need for love and connection goes unmet for an extended period, it can start to wither. We may find ourselves grappling with wounds of attachment, which stem from broken trust and connection.
In those moments, we might chase after material possessions, power, or status, thinking these will fill the emptiness inside us. However, these temporary pleasures often fail to meet our deeper needs for connection and meaning.
When we disconnect from our true nature—one that includes kindness, empathy, and compassion—we may reach a point of crisis. We might feel satisfied with our achievements. Maybe we have built a successful family life or have a comfortable financial situation.
Enjoying nice cars, beautiful homes, and stylish clothing brings joy. Still, as time passes, we may start to feel a lack of deeper meaning and purpose in our lives. Dr. Victor Frankl emphasized that finding meaning is essential for our well-being.
As we age, this vague sense of discontent may arise, leading us to ask ourselves, "Did I miss something important along the way?"