I posted this stream of consciousness this week on my Instagram page after months in a row of disturbing news from around the world. As I study Positive Psychology -- the science of human flourishing -- I've made many connections between the world's hate-driven events and the brain. It is the brain, which controls the thoughts, that leads to hateful acts. An excerpt from my thoughts:
"At the heart of all of this hateful conflict and violence lies one true issue: a human's closed mindset (fueled by linear thinking and a belief that there is only one way to do things, one way to be and one way to practice living). Ironic how primitive this type of thinking is as our civilization has become more intelligent about diversity of thought over the past several centuries. We know so much more about the human brain and that knowledge has literally become power. So to battle the hate, I really think it comes down to teaching young minds to be open, accepting, peaceful, respectful, positive, grateful, gracious, compassionate and kind, to be a responsible contributor to society. This doesn't mean a person won't disagree with others or hold strong opinions as they become an adult, but the actions to address those beliefs should never be malicious toward others' appearance, race, religion, political affiliation, sexual orientation, the list goes on. I believe there is more weight now than ever on teachers and parents to help kids during their formative years learn to use knowledge of brain anatomy and function to make conscious, mindful choices and be open to new, different things, people, processes so that when they grow up to be adults, they find it in their hearts - and most importantly - minds - to acknowledge that all people have diverse beliefs and ways of life. And to harm others or discriminate because of differences is not right and certainly not what makes civilization so advanced. And it's not what makes us lucky to be alive. You can't just tell someone to 'love, not hate' and expect things to change. There has to be conscious, regular practice to change mindsets and behaviors. And that should start at childhood."
This is certainly not the end of the story, nor does it capture all of the complexities related to years of discrimination and the significant progress made for civil rights, the endless stream of world wars and centuries of religious strife. But I am exploring concepts to expand the content that fuels Her Savory Life into a scientific and emotional platform for human flourishing. As we all have the right to live our best -- and safest lives.
