Podcasts about Compassion

Snippet of wisdom 98.In this series I select my favourite moments from previous episodes of the podcast.Today's snippet is from my conversation with the spiritual teacher Hope Fitzgerald. She talks about the Infinity Wave, a flowing symbol of water, channeling love and compassion.Press play to learn about it and hear a very powerful story about the Infinity Wave.˚VALUABLE RESOURCES:Listen to the full conversation with Hope Fitzgerald in episode #388:https://personaldevelopmentmasterypodcast.com/388˚Coaching with Agi: https://personaldevelopmentmasterypodcast.com/mentor˚Send us a textSupport the showA personal development podcast for midlife professionals, offering actionable insights and practical tools for personal growth, self mastery, and purposeful living. Discover strategies for clarity, mindset shifts, growth mindset, self-discipline, emotional intelligence, confidence, and self-improvement. Personal Development Mastery features personal development interviews and solo episodes empowering professionals, entrepreneurs, and seekers to cultivate self mastery, nurture mental health, and create a meaningful, fulfilling life aligned with who they truly are. To support the show, click here.

If you are wondering how to use Reiki to navigate global shifts, our discussion provides the practical, spiritual tools, to move from fear into compassion. We answer the question of how to stay grounded when collective energy feels uncertain. In a world of constant information and rapid global shifts, how do we stay grounded without closing our hearts? Join Robyn and Colleen Benelli as they explore how Reiki helps us navigate the complexity of modern life, expand our compassion, and "hold the light" even when the collective ground feels uncertain.   Reiki Journey: How to Navigate Global Shifts with Reiki & Compassion  https://youtu.be/KpI0CntAHNQ Key Insights The Power of Small Deeds: Real change doesn't always come from grand gestures. Following the wisdom of the "Great Stories," it is the small acts of love, kindness, and ordinary people choosing to hold the light that keep the darkness at bay and shift the collective consciousness.  Sensitivity as Spiritual Maturation: Increasing sensitivity to world events is not a weakness; it is a sign of the evolution of consciousness. Reiki provides the softness and when necessary, the resilience needed to move from "feeling the weight of the world" to "holding the light for the world." Navigating the Global Web: We are more interconnected than ever, functioning like a global mycelium, and web of consciousness. While this makes us more aware of suffering, it also reveals our shared humanity, reminding us that love, grief, and hope are universal across all borders. Inviting the Light When the Tank is Empty: When you feel overwhelmed or angry, you have to "know how" to fix everything. Reiki is an external source of grace. When you activate the light within, you can regulate your nervous system and return to a state of peace and discernment. People Also Ask (FAQ) How can Reiki help with "compassion fatigue" from the news? Reiki helps by calming the nervous system, moving you out of a "reactive" state and into a "receptive" one. By filling your own "gas tank" first, you can maintain your boundaries, and clarify your mind while still remaining an empathetic, grounded presence in the world. Why does the world feel more intense in 2026? We are moving through a significant shift in awareness where old, simple narratives are being replaced by complex, nuanced truths. This expansion of consciousness requires us to hold duality, recognizing global challenges while maintaining faith in the inherent goodness of everyday people. What is the best Reiki tool for staying centered during a "Great Reset"? Self-Reiki and community Reiki shares are make all the difference. Shared Reiki practices allow you to "invite the light" even when you feel you can't do it alone, helping you maintain "Eagle Vision" (the big picture) without losing your "Mouse Vision" (practical, small acts of kindness). Connect with us: Website: https://reikilifestyle.com Podcast: Reiki Lifestyle Podcast Community: Join our next Distance Reiki Share! **DISCLAIMER** This episode is not a substitute for seeking professional medical care but is offered for relaxation and stress reduction, which support the body's natural healing capabilities. Reiki is a complement to and never a replacement for professional medical care. Colleen and Robyn are not licensed professional health care providers and urge you to always seek out the appropriate physical and mental help professional health care providers may offer. Results vary by individual.

Originally aired May 7, 2018. Thich Nhat Hanh, the Buddhist monk, author and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, sits down with Oprah to discuss his dedication to mindful meditation and his legacy of nonviolent opposition to the Vietnam War. In 1966, the spiritual leader met with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and urged him to publicly denounce the Vietnam War. After the meeting, Dr. King nominated Nhat Hanh for the Nobel Peace Prize, saying, "His ideas for peace, if applied, would build a monument to ecumenism, to world brotherhood, to humanity." Nhat Hanh also explains how to practice "compassionate listening," which he believes will help ease suffering, end wars and change the world for the better. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this awesome talk with my dad in Part Three, we are going back in time, into the past when I was poisoned by food at nine years of age and suffered horribly until Spirit Of Compassion spoke to me about something critical that turned it all around—that's when my great grandfather's garden became the medicinal paradise miraculously needed. Dad and I talk about his past, when he was a child and he got injured with his friend while climbing a large, special fruit tree in somebody's yard. We also discuss his favorite guacamole recipe using his heirloom hot peppers he grows in the garden. My dad is a hot pepper expert, with generations of family seeds going back to our roots from Italy. There is much wisdom and knowledge to take in and learn in this profound interview. Fasten your seat belts and take a ride with me and my dad… In this episode… Discover AW's dad's special hot pepper that he grows and named himself, and why it's so good. Learn what Spirit of Compassion told AW to do when he was nine years old after he was food poisoned. Learn about AW's great grandfather's garden and all the different fruits, herbs and vegetables that grew there. Find out what AW's great grandfather called him and what he would say to little AW because of his gift in talking to Spirit. Discover the way AW's father makes his favorite guacamole and what ingredients he uses. Find out why the tree AW's dad climbed as a child was very dangerous and how he got injured. Learn about the time that AW should not have picked green tomatoes. Discover what happened to AW and his father when they both ate their first real hot pepper out of the garden at 6 years old. All this and more, tune in and don't miss out on this important episode. You can revisit this episode anytime you need it. For more information visit www.medicalmedium.com

What if the habits you struggle with most are actually attempts to help you? In this episode, I revisit a powerful way of understanding habits through the lens of Internal Family Systems and the idea of using "the most generous interpretation," a concept popularized by Dr. Becky Kennedy. When we look at our patterns this way, habits stop looking like flaws and start looking like strategies that once served a purpose.   I walk through the Internal Family Systems framework and explain how different parts of us work together to manage painful experiences. Some parts try to prevent discomfort, others step in to soothe overwhelming feelings, and still others carry the emotional burdens from past events. When these parts interact, they can create the repetitive thinking, feeling, and behavior patterns we recognize as habits.   Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://habitsonpurpose.com/214       Join the Habits on Purpose newsletter for extra tools, prompts, and stories between episodes: https://habitsonpurpose.com/

On This Week at Charlestown Road, Jason and Roger revisit Sunday morning’s sermon, “Is It Even Possible?” digging deeper into three key words that ought to define our lives of discipleship: transformation, compassion, and purpose.

In this episode of Don't Miss This, Dave Butler and Grace Freeman continue the story of Joseph in Genesis 42–50 and watch the cliffhanger finally unfold. What once looked like betrayal, prison, and loss slowly reveals a story where God was working the whole time. As Joseph's brothers return during the famine, the story becomes a powerful picture of Christ's character. Through hidden mercy, undeserved generosity, and a carefully unfolding plan, Joseph's actions begin to mirror the heart of Jesus — a Savior who sees us fully, works for our good even when we cannot see it, and offers grace far beyond what we deserve. This episode is a reminder that even when the story feels unfinished, God is still writing. And in the end, the same truth echoes through every chapter: what others may intend for harm, God can still turn into something good. Chapters: 00:00 INTRO 13:31 "God's Trials and Compassion" 14:38 "Simeon Forgotten in Egypt" 22:04 "God Is for Us" 25:58 "God's Perfect Timing" 32:51 "Benji's Bags Unveiled" 37:13 "Joseph and Jesus: Redemption Unveiled" 39:01 "Forgiveness and Redemption" 45:40 "Jesus' Love and Sacrifice" 50:21 "Joseph's Brothers Fear His Judgment" 57:04 "God Will Be With You" 58:32 "Stay Connected with Us" Sign up for the Don't Miss This newsletter at www.dontmissthisstudy.com #dontmissthis #comefollowme NEWSLETTER LINK: The Don't Miss This video, the prayer poster, and tip-ins for kids, teens, couples and individuals can all be found in this week's newsletter. Sign-up link in bio if you haven't had a chance yet!! www.dontmissthisstudy.com Instagram: @dontmissthisstudy Podcast: Don't Miss This Study Facebook: Don't Miss This Study Follow Grace Instagram @thisweeksgrace Follow David Instagram: @mrdavebutler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Subscribe to the Don't Miss This App https://www.dontmissthisstudy.com/app

Mark 6:34 Compassion for the Crowd Christa Lee

Plus: How to "turn down the volume" on suffering, how to reframe your problems, and the clinical evidence for "stopping and smelling the roses."   Eric Garland, PhD is Endowed Professor in Health Sciences at the T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at University of California San Diego (UCSD), and Director of UCSD ONEMIND (Optimized Neuroscience-Enhanced Mindfulness Intervention Design). He has published more than 260 scientific manuscripts and received more than $90 million in research grants to conduct clinical trials of mindfulness for addiction and chronic pain.   In this episode we talk about: The three parts of his M.O.R.E. protocol Simple practices for dealing with everyday addictions Mindfulness techniques for dealing with pain  What pain actually is How to reframe negative thought patterns Practical tools for regaining a sense of joy in your life And much more   Get the 10% with Dan Harris app here Sign up for Dan's free newsletter here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel   Additional Resources:  Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) moretherapy.com Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement: An Evidence-Based Treatment for Chronic Pain and Opioid Use Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement for Addiction, Stress, and Pain   To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris  

Have you ever been suspicious of a corporation showcasing their commitment to the environment, to marginalized groups of people, or to those suffering through a deadly disease? Dr. Mara Einstein is the author of Compassion, Inc.: How Corporate America Blurs the Line Between What We Buy, Who We Are, and Those We Help. For this episode, ahe explains the history and modern state of cause marketing to show how corporations use tricks like greenwashing and pinkwashing to improve their public profiles and their profits while shifting the responsibility of true change to their loyal customers. Mara's website Hoodwinked podcast Get a copy of Compassion, Inc Become a Patron⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to support our show and get early ad-free episodes and bonus content Or subscribe to American Hysteria on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get some of our new merch at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠americanhysteria.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, all profits go to The Sameer Project, a Palestinian-led mutual aid group who are on the ground in Gaza delivering food and supplies to displaced families. Leave us a message on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Urban Legends Hotline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thank You To Our Sponsor: Go to ⁠⁠https://surfshark.com/chelsey⁠⁠ or use code CHELSEY at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN! Producer and Editor: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Miranda Zickler⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Associate Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Riley Swedelius-Smith⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Additional editing by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Kaylee Jasperson⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted by Chelsey Weber-Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kimberly speaks with Self-Realization Fellowship's (SRF) Sister Draupadi as they explore spiritual wisdom, the nature of fear, love, and friendship, and practical ways to live a fearless, loving, and spiritually connected life inspired by Paramahansa Yogananda's teachings.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Connection02:01 Spirituality vs. Religion05:00 Understanding Fear and Its Impact09:45 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Peace14:39 The Nature of Attachment and Love19:47 Navigating Relationships and Dependency24:37 The Role of Compassion and Understanding29:35 Cultivating Positive Qualities in Ourselves38:05 The Golden Rule and Its Importance38:35 Harnessing Willpower with Wisdom40:01 Training the Mind and Cultivating Willpower42:10 Listening to Inner Wisdom and Intuition45:07 Meditation as a Tool for Clarity51:57 Reconnecting with the Higher Self54:51 The Pursuit of Lasting Happiness01:00:32 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Challenges01:09:28 Navigating Friendships and Setting BoundariesSponsors: FATTY15 OFFER: Fatty15 is on a mission to replenish your C15 levels and restore your long-term health. You can get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to fatty15.com/KIMBERLY and using code KIMBERLY at checkout.USE LINK: fatty15.com/KIMBERLY LMNTOFFER: Right now, for my listeners LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase at DrinkLMNT.com/FEELGOOD. That's 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT any LMNT drink mix purchase. This deal is only available through my link so. Also try the new LMNT Sparkling — a bold, 16-ounce can of sparkling electrolyte water.USE LINK: DrinkLMNT.com/FEELGOOD Sister Draupardi Resources: Books: The Spiritual Expression of Friendship by Paramahansa Yogananda. Solving the Mystery of Life by Paramahansa Yogananda. Website: yogananda.orgBio: Sister Draupadi, whose name means spiritual ardor, has been a member of the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) monastic community, established by Paramahansa Yogananda, for more than 40 years. Currently she serves in a variety of capacities at the society's international headquarters atop Mt. Washington in Los Angeles. In addition to her position as a secretary to SRF's president, Sri Mrinalini Mata, she handles various responsibilities for the society's sister organization in India, Yogoda Satsanga Society, and is involved in the training of nuns to lead spiritual retreats. Sister Draupadi has conducted inspirational services and led retreats at SRF meditation centers in the United States, as well as in Italy, Germany, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. She was born and raised in Fullerton, California, and studied at California State University before entering the Self-Realization Fellowship ashram in 1973.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amy Bogue, a dedicated healthcare professional, shares her journey from nursing to becoming a healthcare entrepreneur, detailing how her experiences, such as a life-changing summer in Peru, have shaped her understanding of care and compassion in the medical field. As the conversation unfolds, Amy dive deep into what it means to maintain joy, spread positivity, and tackle the challenges of healthcare entrepreneurship. Amy's story is a testament to the power of grit, community, and resilience.Amy discusses balancing her demanding career while integrating personal values of community, consistency, and hospitality—all grounded in her Mississippi upbringing. She highlights the importance of empowering others through healthy, supportive environments, both in her personal life and professional ventures. By embracing a forward-thinking mindset and continuously encouraging innovation, Amy exemplifies what it means to be a modern leader in healthcare. She also touches on her initiatives to support mental health and explores how staying rooted in core values allows her to thrive amidst an ever-evolving industry.Key Takeaways:Amy emphasizes the importance of staying grounded in core values like hospitality and community, even while pursuing modern innovations and advancements.Experiencing healthcare challenges in a country like Peru enriched Amy's perspective, preparing her to provide compassionate care regardless of circumstances.Building a supportive and competent team is crucial to managing a successful healthcare enterprise and achieving work-life integration.Consistency in parenting and business reflects Amy's belief in the importance of presence and reliability for healthy development and thriving relationships.Aligning passion with purpose, Amy is committed to using her platform for larger impact initiatives, including human trafficking awareness and community health contributions.Notable Quotes:"The more you give, the easier it is to be joyful. Because it's not all about you.""I love to be the first person that people meet from Mississippi. And sometimes I've had friends visit and they actually love it because of our hospitality.""Surround yourself with people smarter than you and trust them to do the job.""Dreams take time, energy, and effort. And it may not happen as fast as we all want, but when it does, take a moment and celebrate.""It's a privilege when people choose us. We run six healthcare clinics, a med spa, and eight pharmacies."Connect with Amy Bogue:WebsiteConnect with Rudy Mawer:LinkedInInstagramFacebookTwitter

This week, Ivy Slater, host of Her Success Story, chats with her guest, Denise Schonwald. The two talk about Denise's journey from a three-decade career as a critical care nurse to becoming a nationally licensed mental health therapist, her innovative approach to connecting with clients by giving away her book, and her mission to bring greater education and honesty to the mental health conversation.  In this episode, we discuss: How Denise went from decades in critical care nursing, night shifts, physical strain, and high-stakes decision-making, to realizing it was time to care for people differently and transition into mental health. What helped her figure out her next chapter was asking, "What am I actually good at?" and translating skills like quick thinking, working with families, and navigating crisis into a thriving private practice. When she realized that building a practice meant becoming a business owner and marketer, not just a clinician, and how writing and giving away her first book (instead of selling it) unexpectedly became her best referral engine, reaching readers as far as South Africa, Australia, and Canada. Why her long-term vision is a national platform for telling the truth about mental health, raising real awareness, and helping a society that she sees getting "sicker and sicker," especially among younger children. How technology can feel like "junk food for the mind," fueling anxiety, depression, and procrastination, and her simple, doable starting point: one hour tech-free in the morning and keeping the cell phone out of the bedroom at night. Denise Schonwald, a registered nurse with over three decades of experience, has seamlessly transitioned from critical care nursing to a distinguished career in mental health counseling. Witnessing families cope with the emotional toll of illness during her time in the healthcare field fueled her passion for holistic healing. Based in Sarasota, Florida, Denise extends her compassionate care nationwide through virtual sessions. As a spiritually grounded mental health counselor and medical intuitive, she leads a comprehensive approach, seamlessly merging mental and physical well-being. A public speaker, spiritual teacher, and certified family mediator, Denise advocates for a harmonious integration of mind and body. Her commitment to nurturing both the body and the mind shines through in her client-centered practice, offering support to individuals, couples, families, and even our youngest thinkers - starting at age 4. Books include: Insightful Self-Therapy: Increasing Your Awareness about Mental Health and How to Live a Happier Life;  When Mom and Dad Divorced: Sam's Story, Elephants Don't Marry Giraffes, and her first children's book, Getting Back to Happy. Website: https://deniseschonwald.com/ Social Media Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-schonwald/      

Cravings aren't about willpower. They aren't about “just saying no” or forcing myself to resist. In this episode, I break down the three major influences behind cravings — and I show why understanding them is the key to finally ending unwanted eating patterns.Whether you struggle with night-time snacking, sugar binges, or compulsive eating, this episode is for you.1. Psychological & Emotional InfluencesI've learned that my mind creates cravings in ways I often don't notice.I recognize my scarcity mindset — feeling “not enough,” whether that's not thin enough, not fast enough, or not perfect enough.I see how fear and anxiety trigger cravings for comfort and quick energy.I pay attention to the language I use: should, shouldn't, can't — they often reinforce scarcity thinking.Even joyful moments can trigger cravings if I subconsciously feel undeserving or fear that happiness won't last. I use hypnotherapy to bring unconscious patterns into awareness so I can consciously choose differently.2. Hormonal InfluencesI've seen how my hormones drive cravings:Cortisol spikes when my nervous system is in protection mode, increasing cravings for sugar and refined carbs.Insulin stores that blood sugar, creating cycles of hunger and fat storage.Understanding this helps me realize it's biology, not a lack of discipline, that often drives my cravings.3. Habitual & Environmental InfluencesMany cravings come from habits I've trained into my environment:Eating popcorn on the couch while watching Netflix.Always reaching for dessert after meals.When I notice these triggers, I can create new routines that support me without relying on willpower alone.4. My Individual ApproachI know there's no one-size-fits-all solution.Some cravings are mostly emotional, some hormonal, some habitual. I focus on knowing myself, my triggers, and my body so I can make sustainable choices. My Make Peace with Food metabolic blueprint helps me find foods that fuel me and support lasting change.5. Shift Your PerspectiveI focus on behavior as the problem, not the weight. Curiosity replaces judgment. Understanding replaces restriction. Compassion replaces guilt. I remind myself: doing the same thing over and over expecting different results is insanity. Change starts by observing patterns, understanding triggers, and making intentional next choices.Work With Sherry:Book your FREE 30-minute Food Freedom Call now and start your journey to lasting change! Schedule here: https://sherryshabanfitness.com/clarityStuck in cravings, stubborn weight, or unwanted eating? Download my free e-Book Calm The Hormones That Drive Cravings and reset your body naturally.Get Your FREE Guide Here: https://sherryshaban.com/hormonesListen to more episodes at www.makepeacewithfood.com/podcast or subscribe to me on Spotify, Podcast, and YouTube so you never miss an episode!Join my Facebook Community: www.myfoodfreedomlifestyle.com Work with me: www.sherryshaban.com/transform Go deeper: www.makepeacewithfood.com Share your biggest takeaway and tag me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn

The Power of Now - A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment with Gilda and BarbaraIn this episode, we cover "Awakening to Divine Purpose - A Guide Through the Six Stages of Spiritual Transformation Stage 1 Awakening: Becoming Conscious Section 06 Compassion and Recovery". Gilda Simonet and Barbara Wainwright are on a spiritual quest searching for Universal truth. We will read through this book from start to finish, one section at a time. We trust you will find value in each episode. We invite you to join our Facebook Group "The Power of Now - A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment with Gilda and Barbara" https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepowerofnowaguidetospiritualenlightmentwithgandb/Learn more about Barbara Wainwright and our Coaching Courses here: http://www.WainwrightGlobal.com 800-711-4346

In this episode, you will hear a Daily Reminder from Ji Kwang Dae Poep Sa Nim about enlightenment and how important it is to let go of all attachments.Thank you very much, Ji Kwang Dae Poep Sa Nim.All my love,Gak Duk

Paramhansa Jagadish is a spiritual teacher known for promoting collective meditation, prayer, and inner transformation. Through the Prayer Project, Jagadish encourages individuals and communities around the world to unite in focused prayer and meditation as a means of fostering peace, healing, and higher consciousness. His teachings emphasize compassion, mindfulness, and the belief that collective spiritual intention can positively influence both personal lives and the broader human community.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

In this episode of Don't Miss This, Dave Butler and Grace Freeman continue the story of Joseph in Genesis 42–50 and watch the cliffhanger finally unfold. What once looked like betrayal, prison, and loss slowly reveals a story where God was working the whole time. As Joseph's brothers return during the famine, the story becomes a powerful picture of Christ's character. Through hidden mercy, undeserved generosity, and a carefully unfolding plan, Joseph's actions begin to mirror the heart of Jesus — a Savior who sees us fully, works for our good even when we cannot see it, and offers grace far beyond what we deserve. This episode is a reminder that even when the story feels unfinished, God is still writing. And in the end, the same truth echoes through every chapter: what others may intend for harm, God can still turn into something good. Chapters: 00:00 INTRO 13:31 "God's Trials and Compassion" 14:38 "Simeon Forgotten in Egypt" 22:04 "God Is for Us" 25:58 "God's Perfect Timing" 32:51 "Benji's Bags Unveiled" 37:13 "Joseph and Jesus: Redemption Unveiled" 39:01 "Forgiveness and Redemption" 45:40 "Jesus' Love and Sacrifice" 50:21 "Joseph's Brothers Fear His Judgment" 57:04 "God Will Be With You" 58:32 "Stay Connected with Us" Sign up for the Don't Miss This newsletter at www.dontmissthisstudy.com #dontmissthis #comefollowme NEWSLETTER LINK: The Don't Miss This video, the prayer poster, and tip-ins for kids, teens, couples and individuals can all be found in this week's newsletter. Sign-up link in bio if you haven't had a chance yet!! www.dontmissthisstudy.com Instagram: @dontmissthisstudy Podcast: Don't Miss This Study Facebook: Don't Miss This Study Follow Grace Instagram @thisweeksgrace Follow David Instagram: @mrdavebutler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Subscribe to the Don't Miss This App https://www.dontmissthisstudy.com/app

Ever caught yourself thinking "you deserved it"? Yeah, same. Let's talk about what that reveals — and how to turn it into something better.#AResonantLife, #BuddhistPodcast, #BuddhistWisdom, #CompassionInAction, #InnerPeace, #MindfulLiving, #Altruism, #LettingGo, #GratitudePractice, #MindfulLiving, #CompassionInAction, #EmotionalResilience, #PodcastRecommendations, #SpiritualGrowth, #SelfImprovement, #MindfulnessMatters, #InnerWork,

Here is the sermon for Sunday, March 8, 2026   Theme for the sermon: Jesus Has Compassion on Harassed and Helpless SoulsThe Scripture readings for today are:First Lesson: Genesis 12: 1 - 8Second Lesson:  Romans 4: 1 – 5, 13 - 17Gospel: Matthew 9: 35 - 38Sermon Text: Matthew 9: 35 - 38Thank you for joining us in worship!You may donate by going to this link: https://www.fountoflife.com/giving

Inspiration, Christianity, Guidance, Blessing, Religion, Help, Worship, Motivational, Bible Teaching, Self Help, Family, Church, Sermons, Testimonies, Word, Preaching, Salvation, Revelation, Holy Spirit, Baptism, Holy Ghost, Prayer, Love, Compassion.

Inspiration, Christianity, Guidance, Blessing, Religion, Help, Worship, Motivational, Bible Teaching, Self Help, Family, Church, Sermons, Testimonies, Word, Preaching, Salvation, Revelation, Holy Spirit, Baptism, Holy Ghost, Prayer, Love, Compassion.

Want to share your thoughts about the podcast? Text a Message!Welcome to the Animal Wisdom SeriesFeaturing Jana Wagner, Animal Communicator.Episode 10: Expand Your Compassion, A conversation with TabithaSpotlight: "Tabitha" Beth's incredible cat companionLearn directly from Tabitha about how to embrace new levels of compassion, releasing reactivity, and why what you wear on the outside helps your inner light shine through. Tabitha shares some profound insights that are not to be missed! One of my favorites: "When you have a vibrant inner life, it's worthwhile to adorn on the outside. In other words: Don't be afraid to accessorize. (She calls it adornments, which is another way of saying adored...) It's just an outward expression of the adoration you hold for yourself, you hold in your heart, and you hold for others."Enjoy!! Jana Wagner works with both animals and people as an animal communicator. She also does holistic energy work, is a spiritual director, and Associate Practitioner in Equine Positional Release.She works with all species of animals, including a racoon and geckos! Jana has been an Equestrian since the age of 8 when she took her first riding lesson.You can find her here: https://www.facebook.com/jwagnerancommand IG here: https://www.instagram.com/janawanimalcommunicator/Please leave a review and share this with friends, if you enjoyed this episode! Thank you so much for listening and...

In this episode, we explore one of the quietest wealth blocks for high achieving women: withdrawing love from yourself when you don't perform. Compassion is not indulgence, it's truth without punishment.  In this episode we unpack how compassion creates the safety required for forgiveness, how forgiveness releases self-punishment, and why mistakes must become data instead of identity. Listen as we explore: • Why high performers struggle with self-compassion • The nervous system and money connection • How shame contracts your capacity to receive • Why compassion increases resilience and magnetism • The difference between responsibility and self-attack Doors to Get PAIED are open HERE Catch my free webinar replay HERE Download your Wealth Codes HERE Get the Email Series that Pays HERE 

Join host Roxie Rush as she covers the heartwarming news that East Tennessee Children's Hospital has been officially renamed the Dolly Parton Children's Hospital in March 2026, honoring the country legend's decades of philanthropy. This episode also explores Dolly's staggering charitable impact, including her Imagination Library now distributing over 270 million free books, her million-dollar COVID-19 vaccine contribution, and addresses circulating rumors about her health and potential Dollywood appearances as she celebrates her 80th year.Loved this episode? Discover more original shows from the Quiet Please Network at QuietPlease.ai, explore our curated favorites here amzn.to/42YoQGI, and catch just a slice of our AI hosts in action on Instagram at instagram.com/claredelish and YouTube at youtube.com/@DIYHOMEGARDENTVThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

I'm back in my kitchen - this really feels like the place to speak to you - and I've been thinking this week about the juxtaposition between joy and pain, between the bitter and the sweet.It's something that came up in a conversation I had recently, and something that's been arising in the Gratitude Quest. So I thought we could reflect on that together today.In this episode, I explore:• How we learn to make space for both joy and pain within us - not as a meme of 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger,' but as a genuine capacity• Why cacao is a beautiful representation of the balance of bitter and sweet • A blessing I received from a wonderful teacher: 'I see you in your pain and your magnificence'• My own journey of believing I could only hold joy or pain, never both — and how I chose joy as my raison d'être, which became unsustainable• The devastating period of grief when I told Anton 'I feel as though I'm never going to smile again'• Getting really ill ten years ago and beginning to understand what would truly serve me• The awakening - deep, deep, deep down in the bowels of my belly - that I have the capacity to hold joy and pain simultaneously• An invitation to feel into where you are on this journey, and to know this capacity exists simply because of our humanityI close with a poem from My darling girl that I don't often share, but that appeared when I opened the book today. It speaks to the expansiveness of a heart that has space for every part of us.I also share details about two offerings: The Weekend of No Requirements 16-19 October (a luxurious retreat in Herefordshire with no requirements upon you to be anything other than how you feel) and Awakening Hopes and Dreams, a small group course beginning 26 March, 12.00-1.15pm (UK).Settle in, and see where the episode takes you. ★ Support this podcast ★

When you show God's love through your care and deeds, you can be a light that points families to Him. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Empathy Sucks (Unless It's With Yourself) I said it. Empathy sucks. Now before you unsubscribe and send me a strongly worded email… hear me out. In this episode I'm diving deep into something that most people believe is a virtue — feeling other people's pain. And yes, empathy can be beautiful. But if all you do is absorb the emotions of others, carry their struggles, and ignore your own… that's not kindness. That's self-neglect. Here's what I explore in this episode: Why absorbing other people's pain drains your emotional energy How empathy can become a way of avoiding your own feelings Why suppressed emotions don't disappear — they generalise The difference between empathy and compassion (and why it matters) How to process your own emotions so they stop running your life Simple processes to turn emotional overwhelm into emotional strength I truly believe this: If you deal with your stuff first, you help people better. When you stop hiding from your own emotions and learn from them instead, something shifts. You become grounded. Present. Powerful. And far more able to support others without drowning in their experience. This episode includes practical processes to: Work with difficult emotions Discover the positive intention behind them Stop suppressing and start learning Shift from emotional sponge to compassionate supporter Because compassion sustains. Empathy without boundaries drains. And if you're going to feel deeply… start by feeling for yourself. This Episode Is For You If: You feel emotionally drained by other people You often absorb the moods of those around you You struggle to process your own emotions You consider yourself "an empath" but feel overwhelmed You want stronger emotional resilience You want to help others without losing yourself A Simple Practice From This Episode Before helping someone else this week, ask yourself: "Am I grounded… or am I hiding?" Then sit with one emotion of your own. Ask: What are you trying to teach me? What are you protecting me from? What can I learn from you? Learn the lesson. And watch what shifts. Share The Love If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe Share it with someone who gives too much of themselves https://personaldevelopmentunplugged.com/fmq527-empathy-sucks-unless-its-with-yourself Leave a review Let's help more people become emotionally strong instead of emotionally overloaded. And as always… Have more fun than you can stand. Shine Brightly

Episode description: Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado, President and CEO of Compassion International, joins host Matthias Walther for a conversation about calling, identity, and the global church. Together, they trace how a childhood spent across developing nations, an Olympic journey, and a Harvard education shaped his lifelong mission. In this episode of “Unscrolled,” we explore the spiritual roots of poverty, the church's biblical mandate to care for the vulnerable, and the simple question that reshaped Compassion's work: What are you going to do with what you've seen? Get ready to discover how faith, formation, and global responsibility converge in one leader's remarkable story.   Guest bio: Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado is the President and CEO of Compassion International.  Show Notes:  Compassion.com Compassion Leadership - Santiago "Jimmy" Mellado  Stay up to date with Museum of the Bible on social media:  Instagram: @museumofBible  X: @museumofBible  Facebook: museumofBible  LinkedIn: museumofBible  YouTube: @museumoftheBible 

TRANSCRIPT Robertson: [00:00:00] Gissele: Hello and welcome to the Love and Compassion podcast with Gissele. We believe that love and compassion have the power to heal our lives and our world. Gissele: Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more amazing content. And if you’d like to support the podcast, please go to buy me a coffee.com/love and compassion. Today we’re talking about how to become a more compassionate civilization in light of the world’s most recent events. Robertson Work is a nonfiction author, social ecological activist, and former UNDP policy advisor on decentralized government, NYU Wagner, graduate School of Public Service, professor of Innovative Leadership and Institute of Cultural Affairs, country Director, conducting community organizational and leadership initiatives. Gissele: He has worked in over 50 countries for over 50 years and is founder of the Compassionate Civilization Collaborative. He has five published books and has [00:01:00] contributed to another 13. His most well-known book is a Compassionate Civilization. Every week he publishes an essay on Compassionate Conversations on Substack. Gissele: Please join me in welcoming Robertson work. Hi Robertson. Robertson: Hi Giselle. How are you? Gissele: I’m good. How about yourself? Robertson: I’m good, thank you. I here in the Southern United States. I’m glad you’re in wonderful Canada. Robertson: great admiration for your country. Gissele: Ah, thank you. Thank you. Gissele: I wanted to talk about your book. I got a copy of it and it was written in 2017, but as I was reading it, I really found myself listening to things that were almost prophetic that seemed to be happening right now. What compelled you to write Compassionate Civilizations at this moment in history. Robertson: Yes. Thank You you so much, and thank you for inviting me to talk with you today. Robertson: And I wanna say I’m so touched by the wonderful work of the Matri Center for Love [00:02:00] and Compassion. I have enjoyed looking at your website and listening to your podcast and hearing Pema Chodron speak about self-love. If it’s okay, I’d like to start with a few moments of mindful breathing Gissele: Yes, definitely. Robertson: okay. I invite everyone to become aware of your breathing, being aware of breathing in and breathing out. Breathing in the here and in the now. Breathing in love. Breathing in gratitude. I have arrived. I am home. I’m solid. I am free breathing in, breathing out here now. Robertson: Love [00:03:00] gratitude. Arrived home solid free. Okay. And to your question, after working in local communities and organizations around the world with the Institute of Cultural Affairs and doing program and policy work with UNDP and teaching grad school at NYU Wagner, I felt called to articulate a motivating vision for how to embody and catalyze a compassionate civilization. Robertson: So each of us can embody, even now, even here, we can embody and catalyze a compassionate civilization in this very present moment. We don’t have to wait, you know, 50 years, a hundred years, a thousand years. we can embody it in the here and the now. So I was increasingly aware of climate change, climate disasters, [00:04:00] the rise of oligarchic, fascism, and of course the UN’s sustainable development goals. Robertson: I also had been studying the engaged Buddhism of Thich Nhat Hahn for many years, and practicing mindfulness and compassionate action. As you know, compassion is action focused on relieving suffering in individual mindsets and behaviors, and collective cultures and systems. The word that com it means with, and compassion means suffering. Robertson: So compassion is to be with suffering and to relieve suffering in oneself and with others. So, I gave talks about a compassionate civilization in my NYU Wagner grad classes and in speeches in different countries. Then in 2013, I started a blog called The Compassionate Civilization. So in 2017, there was a [00:05:00] new US president who concerned me deeply and who’s now president again. Robertson: So a Compassionate Civilization was published in July of that year, as you mentioned, 2017. The book outlines our time of crisis and provides a vision, strategies and tactics of embodying and catalyzing a compassionate civilization, person by person, community by community. Moment by moment it it includes the movement of movements, mom that will do that. Robertson: Innovative leadership methods, global local citizen, and practices of care of self and others as mindful activists. So there’s a lot in it. Yeah. The Six strategies or arenas of transformation are environmental sustainability, gender equality, socioeconomic justice, participatory governance, cultural tolerance and peace, and non-violence, socio. Robertson: So since then [00:06:00] I’ve been promoting the Compassionate Civilization Collaborative, as you mentioned, to support a movement of movements. The mom, Gissele: thank you for that. I really appreciated that. And I really enjoyed the book as well. It’s so funny that, the majority of people see a world that doesn’t work and they want things to change, but they don’t do something necessarily to change it. When did compassion shift from a private virtue to a public mission for you? Robertson: Great question. Thank you. I think it began the private part began very early in my Christian upbringing. I was raised by loving parents to love others. You know, love of neighbor is the heart of Christianity. And understand that love is the ultimate reality. You know, that you know, as we say in Christianity, God is love. Robertson: So then when I went off to college at Oklahoma State University, I found myself being a campus activist. So I shifted to activism for civil rights. We were [00:07:00] demonstrating for women’s rights and for peace in Vietnam. As you know, the Vietnam War was raging. And after that, I attended Theological Seminary at Chicago Theological Seminary, but. Robertson: My calling happened when I was still in college, and it was in a weekend course, just a one weekend in Chicago. Some of us drove up and attended a course at, with the ecumenical Institute in the African-American ghetto in Chicago. And my whole life was changed in one weekend. I mean, I woke up that I could make a difference and I could help create a world that cared from everyone, you know? Robertson: And here I was. I was what? I was a junior in college. So then after that, I worked after college and grad school. I worked in that African American ghetto in Chicago with the Ecumenical Institute. And then in Malaysia, I was asked to go to Malaysia and my wife and I did [00:08:00] that, Robertson: And then. We were asked to work in South Korea, which we did. And then the work shifted from a religious to secular is we now call our work the Institute of Cultural Affairs. And from there we worked in Jamaica and then in Venezuela, and then back in the US in a little community in Oklahoma Robertson: And then I also worked in poor slums and villages. So then with the UNDP. I worked in around the world giving policy advice and starting projects and programs on decentralized governance to help countries decentralize from this capital to the provinces and the cities and towns and villages to decentralize decision making. Robertson: Then my engaged Buddhist studies particularly with Han and his teachers and practice awakened me to a calling to save all sentient beings. what [00:09:00] an outrageous calling, how can one person vow to save all sentient beings? But that’s what we do in that tradition of the being a BofA. Robertson: So through mindfulness and compassionate actions. So then I continue my journey by teaching at NYU Wagner with grad students from around the world. I love that so much. Then to the present as a consultant, speaker, author, and activist locally, nationally, and globally. So Gissele has been quite a journey, and here we are in this moment together, in this wild, crazy world. Gissele: Yeah, for sure, One of the things that I really loved about your book that you emphasize that we need to have a vision for the world that we wanna create. If we don’t have a vision, then we can’t create it, right? many of us are, focusing on anti, anti-oppressive, anti crime, anti this, anti that. Gissele: But we’re not really focusing on what sort of world do we wanna create? and I’ve had conversations with so many people, and when I ask the question, if people truly [00:10:00] believe. The human beings could be like loving and compassionate, and we could create a world that would be loving and compassionate for all many people say no. Gissele: And so I was wondering, like, did you always believe that civilization could be compassionate or did you grow into that conviction? Robertson: Great question. I definitely grew into it. Yeah. even as a child, I was awakened, you know, by the plight of African Americans in my country, in our little town in Oklahoma. Robertson: So I kind of began waking up. But I wasn’t sure, how much I or we could do about it. So I really grew into that conviction through my journey around the world working in over in 55 countries, it’s interesting the number of people your podcast goes to serving people and the planet. Robertson: So. Everywhere I worked Gissele, I was touched by the local people, that people care for each other, you know, in the slums and squatter settlements, in villages, in cities, the, the rich and the [00:11:00] poor. everywhere I went regardless of the culture, the language, the races, the issues the, the local people were caring. Robertson: So my understanding is that compassion is an action. It’s not just a feeling or a thought. It’s an action to relieve suffering in oneself and in others. but suffering is never entirely eliminated. You know, in Buddhism, the first noble truth is there is suffering, and it continues, but it can be relieved as best we can with through practices, through projects, through programs, and through policies. Robertson: So what has helped me is to see, again, a deep teaching in Buddhism that each person is influenced by negative emotions of greed, fear, hatred, and ignorance. And yet we can practice with these and to become aware of them and just, and to let them go, you know, and to practice evolving into loving kindness as [00:12:00] you, as you do in in your wonderful center. Robertson: Teaching more loving, kindness, trust and understanding. We can embrace inner being that we’re all part of everything. We’re all part of each other. You know, we’re part of the living earth. We’re part of humanity. I am part of you, you are part of me. And impermanence, you know, that there is no separate permanent self. Robertson: Everything comes and goes, and yet the mystery is there’s no birth and death. ’cause you and I. we’re part of, this journey for 13.8 billion years of the universe, and yet we can, in each moment, we can take an action that relieves our own suffering and in others. So, as you said, a vision is so, so important. Robertson: I’m so glad you touched on that, that a vision can give us a calling to see where we can go. It can motivate us, push us, drive us to do all that we can to realize it, you know, if I have a vision for my family. To care for my family. If [00:13:00] I have a vision for my country, if I have a vision for planet Earth, that can motivate me to do all I can do to make that really happen. Robertson: So right now there are so many challenges facing humanity, climate disasters. Oh my, I’m here in Swanno where we’ve had a terrible hurricane in 2024. We’re still recovering from it. Echo side, you know, where so many species are dying of plants and animals. It’s, it’s one of the great diebacks of in evolution on earth, oligarchic, fascism. Robertson: Right now, we’re in the midst of it in my country. I can’t believe it. You know, you’re, you’re on 81. I, I thought I was, gonna die and still live in a country that believed in democracy and freedom and justice. And so now here we, I have to face what can I do about oligarchic, fascism and social and racial and gender injustice. Robertson: Other challenges, warfare. And here we are in this crazy, monstrous war [00:14:00] in the Middle East. You know, what can we do? What can I unregulated? Artificial intelligence very deeply concerns me. we’ve gotta regulate artificial intelligence so it doesn’t hurt humans and the earth. Robertson: It doesn’t just take care of itself. So, you know, it’s easy Gissele to be despairing and to give up, you know, particularly at this moment. But actually at any time in our life, we’re always tempted to say, oh, well, things will be okay, or There’s nothing I can do, you know, but neither of those is true. Robertson: There are things we can do. We can stop and breathe and continue doing what we can where we are. with what we have and who we are. We do not have to be stopped by despair or by cynicism or by hopeism. We don’t. So thank you for that question about vision. I vision still wakes me up every day and calls me forward. Robertson: I’m sure it does. You as well. Gissele: Yeah. I [00:15:00] mean, without vision, it’s like you don’t have a map to where you’re going to, right.what’s our destination if we don’t have a vision? And so this is for me, why I loved your book so much. you are helping us give a vision Gissele: I mean, the alternative is what is the alternative? there’s my next question. What happens to a society that abandons compassion? Robertson: Exactly. Well, I sort of touched on it before. it falls into ignorance and into greed. Wanting more wealth, more power. for me for my tribe and, and falls into hatred, falls into fear, falls into violence, and that’s happening now, she said. Robertson: But I love what Thich Nhat Hahn reminds us of, of is that if there is no mud, there is no lotus. And that, that means is, you know, if there is no suffering, there can be no compassion . So without suffering and ignorance, there is no compassion or wisdom, because suffering calls us to relieve it. when I see [00:16:00] my wife or children in pain, I want to help them. Robertson: or when I see others, neighbors, you know, during the pandemic, our neighbors took food and water to each other. You know, after the hurricane, neighbors brought us water. suffering calls the best from us, it can, it can also call, call other things. But again, there’s no mud. Robertson: The lotus cannot grow. So we can continue the journey step by step and breath by breath. So that’s what I’d say for now. but that’s an important question. Gissele: you said some key things including that, people have a choice. They can choose to be compassionate, or they can choose to use that fear for something else, right. Gissele: But I often hear from people, well, you know, they want institutions to change. why are the institutions more, equitable, generous, compassionate and you know, like. I don’t know if we have a vision for what compassionate institutions look like, [00:17:00] what would compassion look like at that level? Robertson: Oh, that’s where those six areas you know, the compassion would look like practicing ecological regeneration or sometimes called environmental sustainability. You know, that we we’re part of the living Earth gazelle, We’re not separate from the earth . We breathe earth air, we drink earth water. Robertson: We you know, the earth. Hurricanes come. The earth. Floods come We are earthlings. I love that word, earthlings, and so, how do we help regenerate the earth as society? And that’s why, you know, legislation aware of climate change, you know, to reduce carbon emissions. Robertson: The Paris Accord, and that’s just one example, how do we have all laws for gender equality so that women receive the same salaries as men and have the same rights. as men, we gotta have the laws, the institutions you know, and the participatory democracy, that we have a constitution. Robertson: a constitution is a vision. of what we are all about. Why are, we’re [00:18:00] together as a country, so that we can each vote and express our views and our wishes, and that government is by foreign of the people. It is. So it’s, it’s critical, you know, that we vote and get out the vote again and again and again. Robertson: And to create those laws, those institutions they care for everyone. And the socioeconomic justice. we need the laws and institutions that give full rights to people of color to people of every culture and every religion, and every gender every transgender, every human being, every living being has rights. Robertson: That’s why the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is so important. I’m so grateful that it was created earlier in the last century in my country our country cannot go to war without congressional approval. Robertson: Aha. did that just not happen? Yes. But it’s in the Constitution. the law says that we must talk about it [00:19:00] first. We must send the diplomats. We must doeverything we can before we harm anyone. War is hell. there are other ways of dialogue and diplomacy. Robertson: we can do better. But again, it takes the laws and institutions. Gissele: thank you for that. I do think that we have some sort of sense in terms of what we find doesn’t work for us, right? these institutions don’t work, they’re based on separation, isolation, punishment, and we see that they don’t work. We see that, like inequality hurts everyone. Gissele: We see that all of these things that we’re doing have a negative impact, including war. And yet we don’t change. What do you think prevents societies from becoming more compassionate? Robertson: if we’re in a society that if harming people through terrible legislation and laws and policies that makes it hard for people then have to either rebel and then they can be you know, killed. Or they have to form movements peaceful movements like the [00:20:00] Civil Rights Movement in my country, you know, with Martin Luther King leading peace marches and our peaceful resistance, in Minneapolis, the peaceful resistance to ice, so what one big thing that’s, that makes people think they can’t be compassionate again, is the, larger society, you know, the institutional frameworks and legislations and laws and government practices. Robertson: But even then, as we’re seeing, you know, in Minneapolis and everywhere, and Canada is leading in so many ways, I think I, I’m so grateful for the leadership of your, your prime minister, calling the world thatwe must not let go of the international rules rules based international practices that we’ve had for the last 80 years, my whole life. Robertson: You know, we’ve had the, the UN and the international rules and now some powers want to throw those out, but no, no, we are gonna say no. we’re [00:21:00] surrounded by forces of wealth and power as we know. And however we can each do what we can to care for those near hand, far away, the least the last, and the last for ourselves, moment by moment. Robertson: Breath, breath by breath. And sometimes we, the people can change history and the powerful can choose compassion. And, we’ve changed history many times. We’ve created democracy. We, the people who have created civil right. Universal education and healthcare of the UN and much more. Robertson: you touched a moment ago on the pillars of a compassionate civilization. You know, there are 17 UN sustainable development goals, as you know, but I decided 17 was a big number, so I thought, why don’t we just have six? That’s why my book, it has six arenas of transformation for ease of memory and work. Robertson: and they are environmental sustainability, gender equality, socioeconomic justice, participatory governance, cultural tolerance, peace and nonviolence. So modern [00:22:00] societies can be prevented from being compassionate also by Negative emotions as we were talking about, of ignorance, greed, hatred, and violence. Robertson: Greed thinking, I need more wealth. I’m a billionaire, but I need another billion. You know, I’m the richest billionaire in the world, but I wanna buy the US government hatred, violence. So these all for me, all back into the Buddhist wisdom of the belief that I’m a separate self. Robertson: Therefore, all that’s important is my ego. Hell no, that’s wrong. You know, my ego is not separate. When I die, my ego’s gone. You know, all that’s gonna be left when I die, or my words and my actions, my actions will continue forever. my words will continue forever. May I, ego? No. So the, if I believe my ego is all there is, and I can be greedy and hateful and fearful and violent, but ego, unlimited pleasure and narcissism, fear of the other, ignorance of cause and effect, these don’t have to drive us. So [00:23:00] structures and policies based on negative emotions and the delusion of a separate self and harm for the earth. We don’t have to live that way. We don’t have to believe propaganda and misinformation and ignorance, and we can provide the education needed and the experience. Robertson: We don’t have to accept wealth hoarding. You know, why do we have billionaires? Why isn’t $999 million enough? Why doesn’t that go to care for everyone and to care for the earth? So again, we have to let go of wealth hoarding of power hoarding. Robertson: we don’t need all that wealth. We don’t need all that power. We can, we can care for each other. We can care for the earth. Gissele: There, there are so many amazing things that you said. I wanted to touch on two the first one is that I was having a conversation with an indigenous elder, and he said to me, you know, that greed is just a fear of lack, right? Gissele: And it really stopped me in my tracks because, when we see people hoarding stuff in their [00:24:00] house, we think, well, that’s abnormal. And yet we glorify the hoarding of wealth. But it isn’t any different than any sort of other mental health issue in terms of hoarding. And so that really got me to think about the role of fear. Gissele: And, if somebody’s trying to hoard money, it’s not getting to the root of the problem, issue. It’s never gonna be enough because they’re just throwing it into an empty hole. It’s a a billion Jillian, it’s never gonna be enough because it’s never truly addressing the problem. Gissele: But one of the things that you said as we were chatting is, that the wealthy, the elite, they can choose compassion, they can always choose it, which is an amazing insight. And yet I wonder, you know, in terms of people’s perspectives of compassion and power, do you think that the two go hand in hand or can they go hand in hand? Gissele: Because I think there might be some worries around, well, if I’m more compassionate, then I’m gonna be, taken advantage of, I’m gonna be, a mat. what is your [00:25:00] perspective? Robertson: Oh, I agree with everything you said and your question is so, so important. Thank you so much. Robertson: there are billionaires and then there are billionaires like Warren Buffet. Look, he’s given. Tens of billions of dollars away, hundreds of billions of dollars away, and other billionaires have done that. And then there are the billionaires, who think 350 billion isn’t enough. Robertson: You know, I need more. Well, that’s crazy. That is sick. That is sad that, that is a disease. And we have to help those people. I feel compassion for billionaires who think they need another 10 billion or another a hundred billion, or they need five more a hundred million dollars yachts, or they need another 15 $200 million houses around the world and that that is very sad. Robertson: And that they’re really suffering. They’re confused. Yeah. They forget what it means to be human. They’ve forgotten what it needs to be. An earthling that we’re just here for a moment. Gissele: Agree. Robertson: We’re just here for a moment, for a [00:26:00] breath, and we’re gone. Breathe in, we’re here, breathe out, we’re gone. And so we can stop. Robertson: We can become aware of that fear, as you said. We can take good care of that fear. I love the way Thich Nhat Hahn says. He says, hello, fear, welcome back. I’m gonna take good care of you. Fear. I’m gonna watch you take care of you. You’re gonna Evolve. ’cause everything is impermanent. Everything changes. So fear will change. Robertson: Fear can change. Fear always changes It evolves into Another emotion, another feeling, So let it go. Let it go. In the truth of impermanence. ’cause everything is impermanent. Fear is impermanent. So we also can remember the truth of inter being that I am part of what I fear, I am part of. Robertson: This current federal administration. You know, I’m part of the wealthy elite, and it is part of me. I fear of the US administration right now, but it is part of [00:27:00] me and I’m part of it. I fear climate change, but it is part of me. I’m part of it. I fear artificial intelligence , unregulated. I fear old age, but boys, I’m 81 and a half, it’s here. Robertson: So I’m gonna take care of it. I’m gonna say, Hey, old man, I’m gonna take care of you. And they’re all me. There’s no separation. I love Thich Nhat Hahn’s word. We enter are, we enter are now, how can I stop, become aware of fear, breathe in and out, and know the truth of inter being and impermanence and accept it. Robertson: Care for it. get out to vote, care for the self, write , speak, do what I can to care for what I can. My family, my neighbors, my city, my county, my country, my world. And everything changes. Everything passes away. Everything comes in and out of [00:28:00] being, what happened to the Roman Empire? Gissele: Mm, Robertson: what’s happening to the American Empire. Everything comes in and goes out like a breath, breathing in and breathing out. And then everything transforms into what is next? What is next? what is China going to bring? Ah, there is so much that we don’t know, Robertson: I love Thich Nhat Hahn’s teaching that. when we become aware of a negative emotion, we should Stop, breathe, smile. And then say, oh, welcome. Fear. Welcome back. Okay, I’m gonna take care of you. Okay, we’re in this together. Robertson: And then you just, you keep breathing in awareness and gratitude and things change. Your grandkid calls you, your baby calls you, your dog, your cat. You see the clouds, you see the earth, the sun. You see a star. You realize you’re an [00:29:00] animal. You know the word animal means breath. Robertson: We are animals. ’cause we breathe. We’re all breathing. So I love that. You know it. I love to say I am an animal. ’cause I, you know, we, human beings are often not, we’re not animals. We’re superior To animals, you know? Right. we are animals, that’s why we love our dogs and cats and we can love our, the purposes and the elephants and the tigers and the mountain lions and, and the cockroaches and the chickpeas and the cardinals we are all animals. Robertson: We’re all breathing. So I love that. Gissele: Yeah. Yeah. Oh, that was so beautiful. I felt that also, I really appreciated the practice too. In this time when we, like so many us are, are feeling so much fear and so much uncertainty and not knowing how things are gonna pan out, to just take a moment to breathe and reconnect to our true selves, I think is so, so fundamental. Gissele: And I hope that listeners are also doing it with us. you know, as I have [00:30:00] conversations with people around the world we talk a lot about, the way that the systems are set up, the institutions. Gissele: And it took a lot of hard work for me to realize that we are the institutions, just like you said, so the institutions are made up of people. And I was so glad to see that in your book, that you clearly say, you know, like it’s about people. It’s about us. It’s like we make up these institutions, you know? Gissele: And when I’ve looked at myself, I’ve asked myself, who do I wanna be? What do I really, truly wanna embody? And my greatest wish for this lifetime is to embody the highest level of love and to truly get to the point where I love people like brothers and sisters, that I care for them and that we care for one another. Gissele: And yet, there are times when I wanna act from that place, but the fear comes up, the not wanting or not trusting or believing when the fear comes up, how can compassion really help us change ourselves so that we can create a [00:31:00] different world? Robertson: What you said is so beautiful, and your question is so powerful. Thank you. Yes. And I’m gonna get personal here. we can do what we can, we can take care of ourselves, we can take care of others as we can, but we shouldn’t beat ourselves up when we can’t. You know? Robertson: So I, here I’m 80, I’m over 81, and I have issues with balance and walking, and I have some memory issues and some low energy issues. So I have to be kind to myself. I, so I’ve just decided that writing is my main way of caring for the world. That’s why I publish one or two essays a week on Substack, on Compassionate Conversations for 55 countries in 38 states. Robertson: And so I said, you know, I used to travel around the world all the time. Not anymore. I don’t even want like to travel around the county. Robertson: Anyway, I’m an elder , so I have to say , okay, elder, be kind to [00:32:00] yourself, but also do everything you can, write everything you can speak with Gazelle if you can. Robertson: I also have to decide who I’m gonna care for. I’ve decided I’m gonna care for my wife who just turned 70 and my two kids and my two grandkids, my daughter-in-law, my cousins and nieces and nephews, my neighbors here and North Carolina. Robertson: The vulnerable, you know, I give to nonprofits who help the hungry and the homeless to friends and to people around the world through my writings and teachings And so the other day I drove to get some some shrimp tacos for my wife and me for dinner. Robertson: And a lady came up and she had disheveled hair. And she just stood by my car and I put the window down a little and she said. can you drive me to Black Mountain? that’s not where we were. I was in another town. ‘ cause I’m out of my medicine. Robertson: She just, out of the blue said, stood there and said that. And I thought, [00:33:00] oh, oh, hmm. Oh, so, oh yes. So I, I wanted to say, but who are you? How are you? Do you live here? Do do you have any friends or family? Do you, you, can I give you some money? Do you have, but I was kind of, I was kind of struck dumb, you know? Robertson: I thought, oh, oh, what should I do? And so I said, oh, I’m so sorry I don’t live in Black Mountain. And she said, oh. And she just turned and walked away and she asked two other cars and they said no. And then she walked away. And then she walked away. I thought, oh, Rob, Rob, is she okay? Does she have a family? Robertson: Did she have a house? What if she doesn’t get her medicine? How can she walk to that town? Could you have driven her and delayed taking dinner home to your wife? And then I said, but I don’t know. And then I thought, oh, but she’s gone. And I then I said, okay, Rob. Okay, Rob, [00:34:00] you’ve lived 81 years. You’ve cared for people in the UN in 170 countries. Speaker 3: Yeah. Robertson: And you’ve been in 55 countries, you’re still writing every week, you’re taking care of your neighbors and family and friends. Don’t beat yourself up. Old guy. Don’t beat yourself up. But next time, you know what Rob, I’m gonna say, Hey, my dear one, are you okay? I don’t have any money, but I can I buy you? Robertson: We are here at the taco shop, Can I buy you dinner? I would, I’m gonna say that next time, Rob. I’m gonna say that. and then I also gazelle,I’m gonna support democratic socialist institutions. You know, some people are afraid of that word, democratic socialist. Robertson: But you know, the happiest countries in the world are democratic socialist countries. Finland is the world’s happiest country. Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, Iceland, those are in the top 10 [00:35:00] when they’ve, when there have been analysis of, if you, if you Google happiest countries in the world, Robertson: those Nordic countries come up every year. Why? They are democratic socialist countries. You pay high taxes and everybody gets free college. You know, free education, free college, free health everybody gets taken care of in a democratic socialist country in the Nordic countries and New York City. Robertson: I’m so proud that our new mayor in New York City Zoran Mai is a democratic socialist. He is there to help everybody, but particularly those who are hurting the poor, the hungry , the sick, or the people of color, women, the elderly, the children. I’m so proud of him and I write about him on my substack and I write him Robertson: I he’s one of my heroes just like Bernie Sanders is one of my heroes. And Alexandria Ocasio Cortes, a OC is one of my, my heroes, CA [00:36:00] Ooc. So, and you know, I used to never tell anybody I was a Democratic socialist ’cause I was afraid. I thought, oh, they’ll think I’m a socialist. Hell no. I am now proud to say I’m a democratic socialist. Robertson: I’m a Democrat. I vote the Democratic ticket, but I’m always looking for progressives, progressive Democrats, you know, democratic socialist Democrats. because, you know, our country can be more like Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, Iceland New York City. New York City is showing us the way America can be like a New York City. Robertson: I’m so proud of New York City and I used to live in New York City so as an old person. I can only do what I can do. and I’m not saying, oh, I poor me. I can’t do anything. No, no. I’m not saying that. I’m saying I can do a hell of a lot as this 81-year-old, it’s amazing what I can do, but that is why I write and speak and care for my family, neighbors, friends, the poor. Robertson: [00:37:00] Donate to nonprofits for the homeless and the hungry vote. Get out the vote. So yes, that’s my story. Gazelle. Gissele: I totally relate. I mean, I’ve been in circumstances like that as well, where you wanna help. But the fear is like, what if a person kills you? What if they don’t really have medication? Gissele: What if you get hurt or they try to rob you or they have mental health problems? Mine goes to protection and it is very human of us to go there first. And so, so then we get stuck in that ping pong in that moment and then the moment passes and you’re like, you know, was it true? Could I have driven that person? Gissele: And that would’ve been something I wanted to do for sure. But in that moment, you are stuck in that, yo-yo, when the survival comes in. And so helping ourselves shift out of that survival mode, understanding and learning to have faith and trust. And for me that’s been a work in progress. Gissele: It really has been a work in [00:38:00] progress. The other thing I wanted to mention, which I think is so important that we need to touch on. It’s the whole concept of socialism. So I was born in South America before I came to Canada and so I remember lots of my family members talk about this, there’s many South American countries that got sold communism, as socialism we’re talking about approaches that instead of it being like a democratic socialism that you’re talking about, which is the government, make sure that people are taking care of and that the people are probably taxed and provided for what would happen in those countries was that. Gissele: Everything got taken away. People were rationed certain things, and, it was horrible. it was not good, but it was not socialism. And there was many governments that took the majority of the money, then spent it on themselves, left the country, took it themselves, and so especially the Latin American community is very much afraid of socialism because they think back to that, the [00:39:00] rationing of electricity, the rationing of food, the rationing of all of that stuff, it wasn’t provided openly. Gissele: It was, everybody gets less. And so you have these people with this history that then have come to the US and think they don’t want socialism. They think democracy means that people aren’t gonna take stuff away from them, but that’s not what it means either. ’cause I don’t even know if like in North America we have a true democracy. Robertson: so thinking about reframing of how we think or experience democratic socialism, that it doesn’t mean less for everybody and in everything controlled by the government. It means being provided for abundantly and, also having the citizens be taxed more, which means we are willing to share our money so that we can all live well, Beautiful. Beautiful. Oh, thank you. Hooray. Wonderful. What country are you? May I ask where you coming? Gissele: Yeah, of Robertson: course. Gissele: Peru, I Gissele: [00:40:00] Yeah. Robertson: Wonderful. I’ve been to Peru a few times. A wonderful, beautiful country. And I, I lived in Venezuela for five years. ‘ cause I love, I have many friends in Venezuela. Robertson: But anyway I agree with everything you just said. That’s why I said what I said that I now can, I can confess that I am a democratic socialist. And that’s not socialism. It’s a social democracy is what it’s called. Yeah. That’s what they call it in Finland and Denmark and so on. Robertson: They call it social democracy. It’s democracy. But it, as you say, it’s cares for everyone and for the earth. We have to always add and the earth, ’cause you know, all the other species and, and the other life forms and the ecosystems, the water, the soil, the air, the minerals the plants, the animals. Robertson: and we have the money, as you said. I mean, if I had $350 billion, think of what taxes I could pay if the tax rate was, you know, 30%. [00:41:00] And rather than nothing, some of these, some of these folks pay, Gissele: well, I think we have glorified that we all wanted that, right? Like we got sold this good that oh, we should all want to be as wealthy as possible, right? And so we normalize the hoarding of money. Not the hoarding of other stuff, right? Gissele: And so we have allowed that, which gets me to my, next point, you talk about the environmental impact as part of a compassionate society, which absolutely is necessary. Gissele: And as human beings, we can be so lazy. We want convenience. We want to, have our package the next day. We don’t wanna wait. are we willing to pay higher wages? Are we willing to wait? Longer for our packages, like, are we willing to, invest in our wardrobe instead of buying fast fashion? Gissele: We don’t do these things and these have environmental impacts, and it also have human impacts, and at the end, they have impact on us. What can we do to ensure that, that we address that [00:42:00] complacency so that we are creating a fair, affordable , and compassionate world. Robertson: So important. Thank you. Robertson: It’s, it’s a life and death question. So yes, we should always ask about ecological and social impacts and take actions accordingly. That’s why I recycle every day. You know, some people say, oh, recycling is stupid. What do they really do with this, with it? You know, are they, are they really careful when you, they pick it up? Robertson: but I recycle religiously every day That’s why I support climate and democracy through third act. There’s a group that Bill McKibbon has started here in the US called Third Act. It’s a group of elder activists, activists over 60 who are working on climate and democracy issues. Robertson: So I’m doing that. That’s why I vote and get it out to vote. And as I said, I vote for Democrats and Democratic socialists. That’s why I write and speak and vote for ecological regeneration for social justice, for peace, for [00:43:00] democratic governance. It’s so critical that we keep questioning our actions like. Robertson: Okay, why am I recycling? Is it really worth the time? You know, deciding about every item, where it goes, and then putting out it out carefully and rinsing it first. And is that really going to help the world? ’cause you also know we need systemic changes, because you can always say, oh, but what the individual does doesn’t matter. Robertson: We need laws, we need institutions of ecological regeneration, and we need laws on caring for the climate and stopping climate change. So you can talk yourself out of individual responsibility when you realize that we need laws and institutions that protect the environment. Robertson: But it’s both. It’s both. what each person does, because there are millions of us individuals. So if there are millions of us act responsibly, that has, is a huge impact. And then if we [00:44:00] also have responsible laws and institutions that care for the environment as well as all people, then that’s a double win. Robertson: So I agree with you. We have to keep asking that question over and over and making those decisions and they’re hard decisions. We have to decide. Gissele: Yeah, I’ve had to look at myself like one of the commitments I’ve made to myself is not buying fast fashion. And so, investing in pieces, even though sometimes I feel lack oh my God, spending that much money on this, you know? Gissele: Yeah. It all comes back to me. if I am not willing to pay a fair wage, that means that the next person doesn’t get a fair wage, which means they don’t wanna pay a fair wage and so on and so forth. And then it comes back to me, you know, my husband has a business and then, you get people that don’t also wanna pay a fair wage. Gissele: It’s all interconnected. And so we have to be willing, but that also goes to us addressing our fear, our fear of lack, that we’re not gonna have enough. All of those things. And the biggest fundamental [00:45:00] fear, and you mentioned death to me, is the ultimate Gissele: fear That we must overcome I think once we do, like, I think once we understand that we are not, this human vessel. Gissele: that we’re not just this bag of bones and live in so much constrained fear that perhaps we could. really open up ourselves to be willing to be more compassionate . What do you think? Robertson: Absolutely. I’m with you all the way. Yes. We fear death because we’re caught in that illusion of a separate permanent self. Robertson: You know, it’s all about me. Oh, this universe is all about me. The universe was created 13.8 billion years for me. Robertson: Yeah. But it’s all about me and particularly my ego, honoring my ego. Building up my ego, praising my ego being, you know, that’s why I wanna be rich and famous. Robertson: Fortunately, I never wanted to be rich or famous, but that’s another story. We’ll talk about that some other time. But everything and [00:46:00] everyone is impermanent. When I realized that truth and it, it came to me through engaged Buddhism, but you could, you could get that truth in many, many ways. Robertson: That everything and everyone is impermanent. we’re part of the ocean. But the waves don’t last forever, do they? But the ocean lasts forever. Robertson: So My atoms, are part of the 13.8 billion year old universe. my cells are part of the living earth. Yes, they remain When I die, you know, go back into the earth. back into the soil and the water and the air but My ego doesn’t remain. What, what remains, as I said before, are my actions. Robertson: Everything I did is still cause and effect. Cause and effect. Rippling out. Rippling out. Okay. Rob, what did you do? What did you say? did you help that, did you touch that? Did you say that? so my actions and words continue rippling forever. So Ty calls that, or in the Plum Village tradition of engaged Buddhism, it’s called my continuation. Robertson: Your actions and your words [00:47:00] are your continuation that last forever as your actions and words will continue through cause and effect touching reality forever. So when my ego does not remain so I can smile and let it go. I often think about my continuation. You know, I say, well, that’s why, maybe why I’m writing so much and speaking so much. Robertson: And caring for so many people every day, you know, caring to care for my wife and my children and grandchildren and friends and neighbors, and the v vulnerable and the hungry, and the homeless, and the, and my country, and my city, and my county, and my, and why do I write substack twice a week? Robertson: And containing reflections on ecological, societal, and individual challenges and practices. And so every, week I’m writing about practices of mindfulness and compassion. So I’m trying to be the teacher. I’m trying to send out words of mindfulness and compassion so that they will continue reverberating when I’m dust, Robertson: So [00:48:00] I’m reaching out. In my substack to just those 55 people in 55 countries, in 38 states, touching hearts and minds and even more on social media. every month I have like 86,000 views of my social media. Why do I do it? It’s not just about ego, you know? Robertson: Oh, Rob, be famous. No, Rob is not famous. I’m a nobody. I gotta keep giving and giving and giving, you know, another word, another action, so I can, care for people around me through personal care, donations, voting, volunteering workshops, I’m helping start a workshop in our neighborhood on environmental resilience through recycling, through group facilitation. Robertson: I’m trained in, facilitation. I’ve been trained my whole life to ask questions of groups so they can create their own plans and strategies and actions. that’s some of my answer. Robertson: I hope that makes some sense. Gissele: Thank you very much. I appreciated your answer and it made me really think you are one of our compassionate leaders, right? [00:49:00] You’re, you’re kind of carving the way and helping us reflect, ’cause I’ve seen some of your substack, I’ve seen like your postings. Gissele: That’s actually how I kind of reached out to you. ’cause I was so moved by the material that you were sharing, the willingness to be honest about what it takes to be compassionate and how hard it can be sometimes to look at ourselves honestly, because we can’t change unless we’re willing to look at ourselves. Gissele: All aspects of ourselves, like you said, we are the billionaires, we are the oligarchy, we are all of these people. The racism that voted that in the, the racism that continues to show the fear, all of that is us. And so from your perspective, what do compassionate leaders do differently? Robertson: Yes. Well, it great question. Robertson: what do compassionate leaders do differently? Well, he or she or they. Robertson: are empathic. I think it starts with empathy. What are like, what are you feeling? What are you thinking? Robertson: What are you, what’s happening in your life? So an empathic [00:50:00] leader listens to other people. They see where other people are hurting. They care. They ask questions and facilitate group discussions, enable group projects. They let go of self-importance, you know, that it’s not all about me. Robertson: They let go of narcissism. They let go of, the ego project. They help others be their greatness. They care for their body mind so that they can care for others. and they donate and vote and recycle and more and more and more and more. did you know in Denmark. In elementary school every week, children are taught empathy. Robertson: You know, they have courses on empathy, Robertson: when I was growing up, I,didn’t have courses in school on empathy in church school, you know, in my Sunday school at, in my church. I was taught to love my neighbor and to love everyone, and that God was love. But in school, in my elementary [00:51:00] school and junior high and high school, we didn’t talk about things like empathy and compassion. Gissele: Yeah. Thank you for sharing that. I did know about Denmark ’cause my daughter and I are co-writing a book on that particular topic. The need to continue to teach love and compassion in, Gissele: being a global citizen. Right? And, and I’m doing it with her perspective because she just graduated high school, so she has like the fresher perspective, whereas mine’s from like many moons ago. Gissele: We need to continuously educate ourselves about regulating our own emotions, having difficult conversations, hearing about the other, other, as ourselves. Because that’s, from my perspective, the only way that we’re gonna survive. a friend of mine said it the best that we were having a conversation and she does compassion in the prison system and she says, I can’t be well unless you are well. Gissele: My wellness depends on your wellness. And that just hit me in my heart, like, ugh. Not that I live it every day, Robertson, Gissele: every day I have to choose and some [00:52:00] days I fail, and other days I do good in terms of like be more loving and compassionate and truly helping the world. But it’s a choice. It’s a continual choice. So this goes to my biggest challenge that maybe you can help me with, which is, so I was having this conversation with my students. We were talking about how. In order to create a world that is loving and passionate for all, it has to include the all, even those who are most hurtful, and that is really difficult . Gissele: I’m just curious as to your thoughts on what starting point might be or what can help us look at those who do hurtful things and just horrible things and be able to say, I see God within you. I see your humanity. Even though it might be hard. Robertson: Yes, It is hard. several years ago when I would hear [00:53:00] leaders of my country speaking on the media, I would get so repulsed that I would turn it off but I began practicing. Robertson: I practiced a lot since those days and I realized, you know. People who hurt, other people are hurting themselves. they’re actually hurting. they’re suffering. People who hurt others have their own suffering of, they’re confused. they’ve forgotten what it means to be human. Robertson: They’re, full of, greed, of their own fears, all about me. Maybe they’re filled with hatred they become violent. they’re suffering. I still find it very difficult to read or listen to certain people. Robertson: But what I do is I stop and I breathe and I smile and I say, okay. Robertson: I care. I’m concerned about you. I don’t know what I can do, but I am gonna do everything I can to care for the people, being hurt, you know, like my fellow activists in [00:54:00] Minneapolis are doing, or elsewhere, we could mention many places around the world where people are risking their own lives. Robertson: You know, in Minneapolis, two activists were killed, Ms. Good Renee Good, and Alex Pretty were killed because they went beyond their fear, you know? they got out there in the street because the migrants were being hurt and they got killed. Robertson: So, you know, At some point you have to come to terms with your own death, I don’t know if I have a, a minute to go or 20 years, I still have to let go. And so how do I care for my wife, my family, my friends, my neighbors my country, the vulnerable, the homeless, the hungry, and, as you said, for the wealthy and powerful who are hurting others, you know, starting wars attacking migrants, killing activists. Robertson: It’s hard. You know? So I have to say, I love the story of [00:55:00] when during the Vietnamese war Thich Nhat Hahn and his monks. They did not take sides. They did not say we’re on the side of the Vietnamese or the us. They did not take a side in the war. This is hard for me ’cause I, I usually take sides. Robertson: The practice was, okay, we’re not going to support we’re Vietnamese or the us. Were going to care for everyone. So they just went out caring for people who were getting hurt and during the war, people who were hungry, people who needed food, people who were bleeding, Robertson: So they decided their role was to care for those who were hurt not to attack. To say, I’m for the blue and I’m against the red. They said, I’m just gonna, care . Like, the activists in Minnesota, They’re, they’re not attacking ice, they’re singing to ice. Robertson: And so yes, we have to acknowledge our own anger. [00:56:00] I’m angry with these politicians. sometimes I want, to hate them, but I have to say, I do not hate you, my friend. You are confused. You’re so confused. You’re hurting others. So you’re so hurtful. Robertson: You don’t realize how you’re hurting others. But, I’ve got to try to stop you from hurting others. I’ve got to try to help those who are hurt and maybe I’m gonna get hurt, you know, because in the civil rights movement, if you’re out there doing on a peace march, you might get beaten up. Robertson: as I said, I’ve lived in villages, poor villages, and. Urban slums in several countries. And some people could say, well, that’s stupid. You could get hurt. You know, you could, you could as a white person living in a African American slum or in a Korean village or in a Venezuelan village, Robertson: So, you know, I say, was I stupid? Was I risking and I was with my wife and children? Was I risking the lives of my wife and children by living in slums and, and villages? Yes. Was I stupid? I mean, [00:57:00] no, I wasn’t stupid, but I was risking our lives. But I somehow, I was, called I wanted to do it. I said, okay. Robertson: but my point is it’s risky, you know? And you have to keep working with yourself. That’s why I love the word practice. Robertson: You know, in Buddhism we keep practicing, and I love your, the teaching of that you have on your website of Pema Chodron, you know, on self-love. You know, you have to keep practicing. How do I love myself? Say, okay, I’m afraid and I’m just this little white person, but or I’m this little old white person, but I’m gonna do everything I can and be everything I can. Robertson: I really appreciated the story of Han not choosing sides. I mean, you’re right. If we are going to see each other’s brothers and sisters and is is one global family, we can’t pick a side over the other, even though we so want to. Gissele: And, and I’m with you. when I think that there’s a [00:58:00] unfairness, when there’s people that are vulnerable or suffering, I’m more likely to pick to the side that is like, oh, that person is suffering. They’re the victim. But what you said is spot on. People that truly lovewho have love in their heart, like when you were raised with love. Gissele: You had love to give others because your cup was full. So it overflowed to want to help others, to want to love others. People that are hurting, that don’t have love in their hearts are those that hurt other people. Robertson: Mm-hmm. Gissele: They must because they must be so separated from their own humanity. Robertson: Yes, yes, yes. Gissele: And yet things are changing. You mentioned Minnesota, and I wanted to mention that I love that they’re doing the singing chants, and they’re not making them wrong. they’re singing chants like you can change your mind. You don’t have to be wrong. You don’t have to experience shame and guilt for the choice you’ve made. You can always change your mind. And in your book, you talk a lot about movements. Do you wanna [00:59:00] share a little bit about the power of movements and helping us create a compassionate civilization? Robertson: Oh, yes. Thank you. I’m, I’m a big movement fan. it started in college with the Civil Rights Movement. I realized, wow, you know, if a lot of people get together and do something together, it can make a difference. Like the Civil Rights movement. Gissele: Yeah. Robertson: And the women’s movement and peace movement. Robertson: And like in Vietnam, the peace movement, we could really make a difference if we get out in March. I think that being an individual or part of an organization that is part of a movement can be a powerful force. And so I focus in my life and that, that book on the six movements that I’ve mentioned, and those movements can work together. Robertson: And when they work together, they become a movement of movements. They become mom. Hmm. I like that because I I’m a feminist and I think that we need so [01:00:00] desperately we need more feminine energy inhumanity and in civilization. Robertson: So I’m a unapologetic feminist. And so that’s why I like that the movement of movements, the acronym is Mom, you know, and so it’s the Moms of the World will lead us like you. And so they’re the movements of ecological regeneration, socioeconomic justice, I’m repeating gender equality, participatory governance, cultural tolerance, peace and non-violence. Robertson: And you know, we also have the Gay Rights Movement, the democracy movement. there’s so many movements that it made a huge difference. So. I began saying that I, after writing the book, I said, okay,now my work is the work of the Compassionate Civilization Collaborative. Robertson: And I decided I wouldn’t make an organization, I it, wouldn’t have a website, I wouldn’t register it. I wouldn’t raise money for it. It would just be anybody and everybody [01:01:00] who was part of the movement of movements who was working to create a compassionate civilization. Robertson: So that’s what I did. And that’s where I am. I’m this old guy in my home. I don’t get out a lot. I don’t drive a lot. I just drive to nearby town. I have a car, but I don’t use it a lot. I don’t like to walk up and down hills. Robertson: IAnd sometimes I can’t remember things and I say, Hey, but look, you have so many friends all over the world and you can keep encouraging through your writing. So that’s why I keep writing, you know, it is for the movement of movements. Robertson: I guess that’s why I write. here’s something I want to share, something I thought or felt or something that I wrote about. And maybe it will touch you. Maybe it’ll encourage you. Maybe we’ll help you in your life. Robertson: I live in a homeowners association neighborhood. It’s a neighborhood that has a homeowners association. We’re 34 families and we have straight families, gay families. we have white families and non-white families. [01:02:00] We have Democrats, Republicans and Socialists. Robertson: We have Christians and Buddhists and Hindus. And so what I do, I say, Hey, we’re all neighbors. We all helped each other during the pandemic. We all helped each other after the hurricane. It doesn’t matter what our politics are or our religion or our sexuality, we’re all human beings. Robertson: We’re all gonna die. we all want love. We all want happiness. And We can be good neighbors. We don’t have to have ideology, you know, we don’t have to quote the Bible, we don’t have to quote Buddha. We can just be good neighbors. So we’re gonna have a workshop this spring And so we’re all going to get together down the street in this big room, in the fire station, and we’re gonna have a two hour workshop. And will it help? I don’t know. Will it make us better neighbors? I don’t know. Why am I doing it? I’m driven to do it. I’ve done workshops all over the world and I wanna do a workshop in my neighborhood. Robertson: I’ve done workshops with the un, I’ve done [01:03:00] workshops with governments, with cities So I love to facilitate. I love getting people together to solve problems together to listen to each other, respect each other, to honor each other. Gissele: so I’m just gonna ask you a couple more questions. But I’m just gonna make a comment right now about what you said because I think it’s so important. Gissele: Number one is I love that your neighborhood is a microcosm of what our world could be like . The fact that people got together to help and make sure that people were taken care of. If we could amplify that, that could be our world. I think that’s such a beautiful thing. Gissele: And the other thing that I think is really fundamental is that even through your life, you are showing us that some people are going to go pickett. And that’s okay. Some people are gonna write blogs to help us, and that’s okay. Some people are gonna do podcasts, and that’s okay. There are things that people can do that don’t have to look exactly the same. Gissele: Some people are going to have more courage, and they’re going to put their bodies in front and potentially get hurt. Other people, maybe they can’t do [01:04:00] that. So there are many different ways to help. The other thing that you said that was really, really key is the importance of moms . And that was one of the things that really touched me about your book, the acronym. Gissele: I was like, oh my God, I so resonate with this. Because I do feel that we need more feminine energy. We really kind of really squash the feminine energy. But the truth of the matter is we need more because fundamentally, nurturance is a mother energy is a feminine energy. Gissele: Compassion’s a feminine energy. Yes, yes, yes, Robertson: yes, yes, Gissele: so if I can share my story. Last night I was at hockey game. My son was playing hockey. Robertson: Mm-hmm. Gissele: And our team they don’t like to fight. Gissele: We play our game and we have fun and we’re good. And so the previous teams that were there, it was under Youth 15, most of the game was the kids fighting. And taking penalties. And so the game ends, the people come off the ice and two men that are starting to get like into a fight [01:05:00] now, woman got in front of them. Gissele: Wow. and said, we all signed a form that said, this is just a game. Remember who this is for? even though she was elevated, she totally stopped that fight between two men that we were not small. And So it was, it was really interesting. Robertson: Wonderful. Gissele: it was a woman who actually stopped a fight Gissele: It’s the feminine power. And that doesn’t mean, and I wanna make this clear, that doesn’t mean that men have to be discarded or have to be treated the same way that women are treated. ’cause I think that’s a big fear. That’s a big fear that some white males have. It’s no, you don’t have to be less than, Robertson: right. Robertson: We need Gissele: to uplift the feminine energy. So there’s a balance. ’cause right now we’re not balanced. Robertson: Exactly. Exactly. Oh, boy. Am I with you there? there’s a whole section in my book, as you noticed on gender equality I’m gonna read a tribute to Mothers I. Robertson: Tribute to Mothers Giving Birth to New Life, nurturing, [01:06:00] sustaining, guiding, releasing, launching, affirming Love. Be getting Love a flow onwards. Mother Earth, mother Tree, mother Tiger, mother Eve. My grandmother’s Sally and Arie, my mother, Mary Elizabeth, my children’s mother, Mary, my grandchildren’s mother, Jennifer, my grandchildren’s grandmothe

A relationship can only be as healthy as the individuals in that relationship. So how can we grow and show up as our best selves for the people in our lives?In this episode, you'll learn:Four things that erode or even break apart a good relationship.How to improve communication and work through conflict when you're feeling misunderstood.How to answer the question "What is really bothering me?" so you can identify root issues.Links and Resources We Mention in This Episode:Get your copy of I Want to Trust You, but I Don't by Lysa TerKeurst here.We're grateful to the American Association of Christian Counselors for being a yearlong sponsor of Therapy & Theology. Click here to apply for their Youth Mental Health Coach program — a biblically grounded, clinically excellent training to help you support youth facing today's most common mental health challenges. Go to Compassion.com/Lysa to join us in sponsoring a child through Compassion International today.Subscribe here to receive new Therapy & Theology episodes straight to your inbox.Want a chance to be featured on Listener Mail? Leave Lysa, Jim, or Joel a message or a question right here.Help women experience God's nearness in this and every moment. Receive Come Close to Jesus as our thanks for your gift today.Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

*This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners. This week, we’ll hear from Ed Newton, pastor of Community Bible Church in San Antonio, Texas. Growing up as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), Ed bridged the hearing and deaf worlds for his parents, fostering immense empathy but also hardship. Later, following his parents’ deaths, he faced a tidal wave of despair and suicidal thoughts. He sought professional help and openly shared his struggle with his church, who responded with grace. Now, Ed advocates for the church to be a hospital for the broken, urging people to seek help and recognize it’s okay not to be okay, but not to stay that way. Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Wendell Vinson and Todd Lamphere from CityServe, an organization that helps equip and empower churches to serve their communities. They discuss CityServe’s mission to equip local churches and to meet the last mile of need in their communities. They highlight the church’s role in community transformation, citing reduced recidivism rates, and its essential “ministry of presence” before, during, and after crises like natural disasters or war. Finally, they acknowledge compassion fatigue, emphasizing that faithful service requires spiritual replenishment in order to continue to serve others well. Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned: Jesus Calling Podcast Jesus Calling Jesus Always Jesus Listens Past interview: Erica Campbell Upcoming interview: Kathie Lee Gifford Jesus Calling app Ed Newton CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) Romans 8:28 www.ednewton.com Why Not You? Believing What God Believes About You CityServe Canyon Hills Church Matthew 16:13-27 prison recidivism This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt, call Trinity today. Trinity’s counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps! Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Interview Quotes: “My mission was to actually be the voice for two people that could not speak and to help them understand how to aggregate and acclimate into a hearing world.” - Ed Newton “It’s okay not to be okay. It’s just not okay to stay that way. God can break every chain.” - Ed Newton “I believe some of the healthiest people I have ever met sit on somebody’s couch. I actually think the red flag of danger is for somebody that says, ‘I’m good. I don’t need counseling.’ I would say watch out for that slippery slope of destruction that’s about to happen.” - Ed Newton “I just think for most people, life gets shaken up and they don’t know what to do with that. Don’t live life all bound up when you can find somebody that would love you, sit with you, and go, ‘Hey, let me tell you what I hear and see. You’re not alone.’” - Ed Newton “Sometimes churches get it wrong and we slap Bible verses on a chemical disruption in the body. And I want to say, ‘I’m sorry you got hit with a Bible verse when you just needed someone to sit in the puddle of your tears.’” - Ed Newton “We’re constantly hearing and listening and feeling, but when we do not align our heart to what God says, who is the ultimate voice, then it just conflicts with the directional, navigational component of our life.” - Ed Newton “There’s a God who never changes, who operates out of the character of sovereignty and goodness, and who’s always working for your greater good. So why not begin a day with Him, and let Him frame the filter of how you’re to see the world?” - Ed Newton “It’s a beautiful partnership that allows pastors and churches that have a desire to meet the practical, physical needs of the community it was called to serve, and to have an organization come alongside it to help make that happen. This is the beauty of the partnership between the local church and CityServe.” - Todd Lamphere “When a person connects with the body of Christ and starts moving down a different path, it transforms community.” - Wendell Vinson “What people need in times of disaster more than anything, is they need the ministry of presence.” - Todd Lamphere “Compassion is scalable. You start where you are with what you have, and God will take you further.” - Wendell Vinson “Compassion fatigue is just a reality. You cannot give out what you do not have in you. This is why being saturated in God’s Word every day is so vitally important. It’s a non-negotiable to stay in God’s Word to commune with Him, to listen to worship music, to pray for God to just continue to be your strength, to be your source, to be your all in all.” - Todd Lamphere “If any of us think that we can in our own strength or power just live out what the Lord’s called us to, we’re mistaken. It all flows out of that personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.” - Wendell Vinson ________________________ Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel! Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7 Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today’s Bible Verse: “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat.” — Mark 8:2 Mark 8:2 reveals the heart of Jesus before the miracle. Before He multiplied the loaves and fish, He expressed compassion. He noticed their need. He cared about their hunger. He was moved. “Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ Meet Today’s Host: Reverend Jessica Van Roekel

We would love to pray for you! Please send us your requests here. --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

The question is: Are you correcting yourself — or attacking yourself? How do you accept who you are… without lowering your standards? In this episode, we unpack Acceptance Without Drift: Acceptance is a starting point — not a finish line. Self-hatred is not discipline. Compassion is not complacency. Real discipline isn't built on shame. It's built on responsibility. Two truths must coexist: “I am responsible.” “I am not perfect.” When you hold both, everything changes. We talk about: • Why shame can fuel a sprint — but never a lifetime • How identity drives action, and action drives outcome • Why stillness after a mistake creates better options • The leadership mindset that stabilizes teams under pressure Self-respect corrects behavior. Self-hatred attacks identity. There's a difference. You don't grow by hating yourself into submission. You grow by respecting yourself into action. That's how we push back chaos. ⸻ Practical: The 3-Step Reset When you fall short: 1. Debrief the action — not the person 2. Pause before reacting 3. Build correction within 24 hours Acceptance without drift. Stand under the bar — and lift. #PushingBackChaos #PBC #HeroesMediaGroup #HMG #AcceptanceWithoutDrift#IdentityActionOutcome#SelfRespect#ResponsibleMen#DisciplinedLife#Stillness#MasculineLeadership#MenWhoLead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Birthday to the Church celebrating 2000 Years of Power MESSAGE SUMMARY: On this day of Pentecost, we're invited to explore the profound significance of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The message takes us through Jesus' teachings in John 14, where He promises the coming of the Helper - the Holy Spirit. We learn that the Spirit is not just a distant force, but a personal presence that dwells within us, bringing the very essence of Christ into our hearts. This indwelling Spirit transforms us, making us more like Jesus and empowering us to do His works. As we reflect on this, we're challenged to consider how we're allowing the Spirit to work in our lives. Are we grieving or quenching the Spirit through unforgiveness or sin? Or are we opening ourselves fully to His guidance and power? This Pentecost, let's renew our commitment to living Spirit-filled lives, recognizing that God's desire is for His presence to be with us always, not just now, but for eternity.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Resentment. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Compassion. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Number 11; 2 Chronicles 15:1; 1 Samuel 10:16; 1 Samuel 16; Luke 2:25; Acts 2:42; Acts 2:2-4; John 14:6. WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 6– A Peculiar People” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

“El mexicano frecuenta a la muerte, la burla, la acaricia, duerme con ella, la festeja, es uno de sus juguetes favoritos y su amor permanente.” ― Octavio Paz, El Laberinto de la Soledad Lindsay Graham: https://abcnews4.com/news/local/after-laying-out-a-similar-plan-11-years-ago-lindsey-graham-hails-trumps-iran-operation https://youtu.be/wjGgrU8g30c?si=Bly_wZswHLJr8gpw Danielle (00:04): I saw this thing from Lindsay Graham, this clip, and he was saying what we're doing in Iran now is going to ... And Lindsay Grand is a senator here in the United States. And he said he's going to ... What we're doing in Iran, quote, doing, because they're not calling it a war, they're calling it a special operation. He said is going to set the tone in the Middle East for the next 1000 years. And so you can go into your eschatology and your theology after this, Jenny, but he also then proceeded to say that this is a matter of which religion is going to be predominant in the planet. And they talked about Islam and they spoke about Christianity in those terms. And yeah, I wonder what comes up for you as I even just say those brief few sentences about theologically how we grew up or the frame you come from. Jenny (01:03): So much. I mean, so much. I think about how skewed and biased the interpretation of Revelation was in the world that I grew up in. And it was always like fear mongering, like barcodes were the mark of the beast. And then I know people in that same world that said that COVID vaccines were the mark of the beast and just like all of these things. And the mark of the beast was literally the numerical definition of Caesar Nero. It's nothing like we say it is. It was apocalyptic literature that was speaking to the time for a very specific purpose. And yet it has been co-opted. And I really appreciate this book from Bart Erman called Armageddon, and he breaks down the entire historical context for the Book of Revelation and then what has happened to it. And I was thinking about, I was nine, 10 years old when I watched the movie Left Behind with Kirk Cameron and I was terrified that the rapture was going to happen. (02:16): And it was only a year or so, maybe it was even in that same year that I watched the two planes hit the world Trade Center buildings on my family's television. And it was the same television I had just watched Left Behind on that year. And so in my little nine, 10, 11 year old brain, I was like, oh my God, those pilots got raptured and me and my mom are here in our living room and that's what happened.That's how quickly and how much that was associated with my consciousness and what I had been conditioned to. There's many more things that come to mind, but those are some of my first thoughts. Danielle (03:00): Well, even into my young adulthood, and maybe even now, it's been so ... We had to watch when I was little, we went to church and we watched these scenes of the United ... The rapture had happened. And then if you were left behind, then what would happen to you? And the only image I remember from these movies, and I should look them up, is people confessing Jesus because they wouldn't take the mark of the beast. And then they ... I wasn't even in kindergarten, so they put their heads through this guillotine and then they snapped down and people were beheaded. So I remember watching that at church and then at some point coming home and dreaming that the devil was in my room and then running outside and no one was in the garage. So I thought I'd been left behind. And oddly enough, even though I have moved away from that belief entirely about the rapture, if I wake up and everybody's gone or I'm not expecting it, even to this day, something flashes in my mind, "Oh, I wonder if that happened. (04:11): I wonder if I got left. I wonder if I didn't make it. " So those things have a lasting impact. Jenny (04:18): They do. They really do. I mean, I often think about ... So nine eleven happened and then that following summer, me and my mostly white dance studio from Colorado Springs was dancing at the Colorado State Fair to the song Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue. That's literally about bombing and destroying lives and people. And we were doing punches and kicks in these old Navy American flag t-shirts. And it was, again, this fusion of fear of the rapture with this belief in if Israel takes over all of the land around Palestine, then Jesus is going to come back. And I was so conditioned to be excited about the death and decimation of hundreds of thousands and millions of lives of people. And it is so devastating and infuriating to me to think about the rhetoric of those jihad terrorists over there conditioning children for war. (05:31): When I was literally being conditioned for war and the holy war and believing that I was on the side of God and these other people were on the side of Satan, it leads to so much dehumanization and harm. I hate it so much. Danielle (05:50): Yeah. It's almost like apocalyptic or ... I come back to the Handmaid's Tale and it ... Have you watched much of it or any of it? Okay. Well, a lot of people, I won't tell you, but it starts off with like, you don't really know what's happening, but they're escaping in their car, this family of three. And over the series, it flashes back so you get more of the story. But as it flashes back, I began to feel like, "Well, why didn't they get out sooner? What stopped them from leaving sooner? What was it? " And you see this progression both of this story about our Congress losing its powers or seeding its authority to a leader. And when I watched the movie, it was before this elect ... Well, watched the show. It was before this election and kind of during last year a bit. (06:54): But in my mind, I'm like, "Well, how did that happen?" And then as you watch the Senate vote, literally, and they don't vote to reign in war powers for Trump, you wonder what is happening? It's like not every president, but for this large scale of attack, there's no precedent for a president bypassing Congress and shooting the shit out of something, some other person in this scale and not having Congress involved. I mean, for all of Bush's faults and failures and horrors and lies, I mean, he did try to pitch it to Congress. (07:33): And so I'm not a Bush fan anyway, but sometimes I'm like, "Well, that was even better." But then you mix that with Doug Wilson of CREC and Pete Hegseth talking about Armageddon and we're doing this for Jesus. And then it just becomes almost impossible to untangle with people who believe that way. Yeah, Jenny (07:59): It does. It does. And the more I learn about Christian nationalism, the more this has been in the works for the last 50, 60, 70 years. And so we're seeing it in a huge, drastic way, but Bush and others that were elected from the moral majority were all part of that really long game plan to get America back to this very white, patriarchal, heteronormative view of Christianity, which in my mind isn't actually Christianity. It's not a historical version that the brown Jewish man from Palestine promoted. It was the bastardization of that when Constantine created this marriage between military and state and Christianity. And I think since 300s, AD, there's been this snowball that's just continued to grow and grow and grow and we're seeing it play out right now. (09:25): Yeah. I noticed that it puts me in quite a dissociated state, which is very familiar to me. And I think that's largely what my childhood was, was being dissociated and actually thinking that that was a good thing because this life meant nothing.This was all a means to an end until heaven. And so then even as I say that, I feel grief because I've come to feel that this life is really, really significant. I just watched this beautiful documentary called Come See Me in the Good Light about the poet, Andrea Gibson's Journey with Cancer. And it was such a profound image of how meaningful relationships and love and life are. And I didn't know that in this Christian nationalist world. Relationships were always a means to an end to something. My own body was a means to an end to something. And so it takes a lot of work for me to drop back into my body because of this conversation and because of what's playing out in our world. (11:21): And that's really real. Danielle (11:23): Yeah. I just went through that first module of SE training. So I'm all over the language, Jenny. I know what you're talking about. Well, talk to me a little bit about an escapable threat then. When you say that, I think most people think, oh, and then their minds are twirling. I know my mind was when I first started learning about it, and it resonated a lot for me, but walk me through how you think of that for you. Well, first I guess I would have to believe that there was or is an actual political dialogue taking place that I could potentially be a part of. And honestly, I'm not sure that I believe that.

The trial has begun for three people, including two lawyers, accused of staging car accidents throughout the Crescent City. The trial is the first in a widespread insurance fraud scheme and is even connected to a possible murder plot. John Simmerman has been covering this story for The Times Picayune/The Advocate, and joins us now for more.LSU Health New Orleans has been selected to take part in a grant to help teach an often-overlooked element of medical care — compassion. This four-year medical education project will use “precision education” to provide individualized learning for medical professionals.Dr. Peter DeBleiux, assistant dean of advanced learning and simulation at LSU Health New Orleans, and Dr. Rachel Fiore, assistant professor and director for the Standardized Patient Project, join us with more. Louisiana's Old State Capitol in downtown Baton Rouge has opened a new photography exhibit that documents Louisiana's role in both the practices and the challenges to racial segregation. Members of the Louisiana Photographic Society used their cameras to capture present-day evidence of Louisiana's complex history. It's part of a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.Anne Mahoney, curator of Louisiana's Old State Capitol, tells us more about the exhibit and the 19 photographers featured. She's joined by Stacey Pearson and Marilyn Goff, two participant photographers in this exhibit.—Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Adam Vos. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber. We get production support from Garrett Pittman and our assistant producer, Aubry Procell.You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you!Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!

Welcome to Day 2 of The Art of Ubuntu. Today's meditation centers on the affirmation: "I am part of everything around me." This gentle practice is designed to soften feelings of separation and help you reconnect to the quiet truth of belonging—through your breath, your body, and your awareness of the life all around you. You'll be guided to settle your nervous system, open the heart with warmth, and meet your day with a little more ease, compassion, and connection. Leave feeling grounded, supported, and more at home in your own life—because you were never meant to carry it alone. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S SERIES Welcome to The Art of Ubuntu—a meditation series inspired by the African philosophy that reminds us: "I am because we are." Ubuntu is the practice of remembering our shared humanity—especially in moments when life feels isolating, tense, or divided. It's not about being perfect or "nice." It's about choosing presence, dignity, and compassion—so you can feel more grounded in yourself while also feeling more connected to others. In this series, each meditation will help you strengthen the inner skills that make Ubuntu real in daily life: steadiness in your nervous system, warmth in your heart, and a clear sense of belonging. You'll explore what it means to offer kindness without self-abandonment, to set boundaries without losing your humanity, and to live with the quiet strength of community-minded love. Let this be your daily reminder that healing isn't only personal—it's relational—and your peace becomes even more powerful when it's shared. This is day 3 of a 7-day meditation series, "Ubuntu Mindfulness: A Gentle Practice to Feel Less Alone" episodes 2572-2578. THIS WEEK'S CHALLENGE - CO-CREATOR QUEST Every day connect with the world around you in a meaningful way. THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  VISUALIZATION: Compassion Day 2:  AFFIRMATION: "I am a part of everything around me." Day 3:  CLARITY BREATH: Inhale: peace within -- Exhale: peace to the world Day 4:  DHYANA MUDRA Lose yourself in time and space by placing your right hand on top of your left hand, and touching thumb tips together. Day 5:  CHAKRA FOCUS: First chakra to feel grounded Day 6:  Compassion FLOW MEDITATION: combining the week's techniques Day 7:  WEEKLY REVIEW MEDITATION: closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 3,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

Welcome to Day 2 of The Art of Ubuntu. Today's meditation centers on the affirmation: "I am part of everything around me." This gentle practice is designed to soften feelings of separation and help you reconnect to the quiet truth of belonging—through your breath, your body, and your awareness of the life all around you. You'll be guided to settle your nervous system, open the heart with warmth, and meet your day with a little more ease, compassion, and connection. Leave feeling grounded, supported, and more at home in your own life—because you were never meant to carry it alone. ABOUT THIS WEEK'S SERIES Welcome to The Art of Ubuntu—a meditation series inspired by the African philosophy that reminds us: "I am because we are." Ubuntu is the practice of remembering our shared humanity—especially in moments when life feels isolating, tense, or divided. It's not about being perfect or "nice." It's about choosing presence, dignity, and compassion—so you can feel more grounded in yourself while also feeling more connected to others. In this series, each meditation will help you strengthen the inner skills that make Ubuntu real in daily life: steadiness in your nervous system, warmth in your heart, and a clear sense of belonging. You'll explore what it means to offer kindness without self-abandonment, to set boundaries without losing your humanity, and to live with the quiet strength of community-minded love. Let this be your daily reminder that healing isn't only personal—it's relational—and your peace becomes even more powerful when it's shared. This is day 2 of a 7-day meditation series, "Ubuntu Mindfulness: A Gentle Practice to Feel Less Alone" episodes 2572-2578. THIS WEEK'S CHALLENGE - CO-CREATOR QUEST Every day connect with the world around you in a meaningful way. THIS WEEK'S MEDITATION JOURNEY  Day 1:  VISUALIZATION: Compassion Day 2:  AFFIRMATION: "I am a part of everything around me." Day 3:  CLARITY BREATH: Inhale: peace within -- Exhale: peace to the world Day 4:  DHYANA MUDRA Lose yourself in time and space by placing your right hand on top of your left hand, and touching thumb tips together. Day 5:  CHAKRA FOCUS: First chakra to feel grounded Day 6:  Compassion FLOW MEDITATION: combining the week's techniques Day 7:  WEEKLY REVIEW MEDITATION: closure SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me on https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  WAYS TO SUPPORT THE DAILY MEDITATION PODCAST SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com. FOR DAILY EXTRA SUPPORT OUTSIDE THE PODCAST Each day's meditation techniques are shared at: sip.and.om Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om/ sip and om Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SipandOm/ SIP AND OM MEDITATION APP Looking for a little more support? If you're ready for a more in-depth meditation experience, allow Mary to guide you in daily 30-minute guided meditations on the Sip and Om meditation app. Give it a whirl for 7-days free! Receive access to 3,000+ 30-minute guided meditations customized around a weekly theme to help you manage emotions. Receive a Clarity Journal and a Slow Down Guide customized for each weekly theme.  2-Week's Free Access on iOS https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone All meditations are created by Mary Meckley and are her original content. Please request permission to use any of Mary's content by sending an email to Mary@sipandom.com.Let go of repetitive negative thoughts. Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.

The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today's world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering?How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy, without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion, Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the inaugural episode, Sharon's speaks with longtime friend and colleague, Jerry Colonna—a renowned coach, writer, and speaker who specializes in leadership, business, and the practice of radical self-inquiry. Jerry is the Co-founder and CEO of Reboot.io, a company inspired by the belief that work need not destroy us. He is also the author of two books: "Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up" (2019) and "Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong" (2023). For more than two decades, Jerry has championed the idea that work should be non-violent to the self, the community, and the planet. This marks his third appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast.In this conversation, Sharon and Jerry speak about:Suffering and the end of sufferingThe Four Noble TruthsSara Bareilles and Gavin CreelHolding many things at onceWhere resilience comes fromHow generosity can appear in extreme lossJerry's time in India after an earthquakeThe dynamics of hope and fearHow we actually “get over loss”Misunderstanding karmaControl veiled as “magical thinking”How unworthiness leads to isolationCompassion is not hierarchicalThe Dalai Lama winning a GrammySuffering versus Extra SufferingFacing our helplessnessThe fixation with fixing thingsFinding fuel for the long haulFacing our nihilismAdditional ResourcesYou can learn more about Jerry's work and his organization Reboot.io right here. This episode is also being release on the Reboot Podcast, which can be found right here. You can listen to Jerry's first appearance on the Metta Hour in Episode 102, recorded in 2019 and his second appearance, Episode 229, recorded in 2023.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send a textIn this episode, Wil Fisher sits down with Annie Schuessler-Zam, a trauma healer who uses Brainspotting and Parts Work to help people release stuck emotional pain. Annie was a licensed psychotherapist for 20 years and now works outside of the medical model. She also runs workshops for folks who are estranged from a parent and want to create their most beautiful and meaningful lives, and she's the host of Rebel Therapist, a podcast devoted to healers doing their own personal work.Together, they explore:Parts Work / IFS as an invitation to create enough inner safety for our younger “exiled” parts to come forward with their messages.Attachment wounds, tenderness, and what it's like when insecurity shows up in close relationships—and why that can actually be a sign of healing.The difference between soothing a part versus accidentally silencing it with quick “you're fine” band-aids.Disclosure + discernment: how to know what to share, why you're sharing it, and how to stay resourced when feedback isn't gentle.The myth that healers should have it all together—and why it's actually a red flag when a healer isn't doing their own work.“Healing waves”: why the work doesn't really end, but our capacity to ride it can deepen over time.Estrangement in queer communities: finding your place on the estrangement continuum with integrity and self-trust.A practical framework for boundaries: choosing the level of contact that allows you to have your best relationship with yourself and the people you love.Chosen family, grief, and the complex emotions that can arise when an estranged parent dies.Compassion and boundaries: how forgiveness and love don't require continued access or self-sacrifice.Connect with Annie:Website: https://anniezam.com/Wil's interview on Annie's podcast Rebel Therapist: https://anniezam.com/podcast/256Connect with Wil:Website: https://www.wil-fullyliving.comAwakened Hearts for Single Gay Men retreat: https://www.wil-fullyliving.com/singlesInstagram: @wilfish99Support the show

What does it mean to truly support clients—and your team—when a beloved pet passes away? Collin talks with Shannon Rigby, owner of Puppy Love Pet Sitting in Wimberley, Texas, about the emotional side of pet care and her work as a certified Pet Loss Grief Support Specialist. Shannon shares how her psychology background led her to this calling, how grief shows up for both clients and sitters, and the healthy ways to honor those feelings. They also discuss community engagement, team well-being, and creating resources that strengthen connection. This heartfelt conversation reminds us that love and loss are both part of the work we do. Main topics: Supporting grieving pet parents Emotional wellness for pet sitters Building community partnerships Turning compassion into business growth Healthy grief and healing practices Main takeaway: "The greater the love, the greater the loss—and it's not meant to be healed in a snap." In pet care, we see love in its purest form every day. But we also witness the heartbreak when that love is lost. Shannon Rigby reminds us that grief isn't something to rush through—it's something to honor. By allowing clients (and ourselves) to feel, reflect, and remember, we can transform sorrow into gratitude for the bond we were privileged to share.

We've got another book coming, and this time, it's a book full of Treyslations!God Still Loves the World is coming soon!You can read a bit more about it ⁠here⁠:David Morris, publisher of Lake Drive Books, has taken world rights to the tentatively titled God Still Loves the World: Imagination, Compassion, and the Journey to Ourselves by the unagented Trey Ferguson, a minister, public theologian, and cohost of the Three Black Men podcast. The book, planned for November 2026, outlines how God speaks to the "heart language" of our time and includes the author's “New Living Treyslation” of key Bible passages, said Morris.Got Bible questions? You can still leave a voicemail at 305-290-1190! We may even put you in the show

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around suicide.  Triggers Aren't the Problem—They're the Clue Co-host Sue Marriott and guest Lisa Firestone examine how attachment wounds, emotional dysregulation, and relational disconnection can quietly escalate into crisis. Together they explore the often-overlooked link between attachment patterns and suicidality, and why understanding your relational blueprint may be one of the most important protective factors you have. Blending research, clinical experience, and practical strategies, this episode offers tools for building emotional resilience, increasing self-awareness, and supporting others through vulnerable moments.  “It is a full-time job to cope with alien elements from both interpersonal sources and societal influences.” – Dr. Lisa Firestone Myths of Attachment Styles: What Real Science Tells Us FREE LIVE Webinar – March 12 Join Ann and Sue as they challenge oversimplified attachment frameworks popularized on social media and explore the dynamic, context-dependent nature of defensive attachment patterns.​​​​​​​ The attachment spectrum includes cultural patterns as well as unconscious scripts and strategies to update your patterns in real time – tune in to hear more! FREE with an option to purchase 1.5 CE. Click Here to Sign Up!! Time Stamps for From Crisis to Connection: Attachment as a Lifeline with Dr. Lisa Firestone (292) 05:23 Understanding suicide and self-regulation 11:09 Therapeutic approaches to suicidality 16:17 Navigating attachment styles 27:11 Understanding attachment and security 29:53 Interactive exercise on attachment 40:22 Recognizing triggers in relationships About our Guest – Dr. Lisa Firestone Lisa Firestone, PhD is a Clinical Psychologist and the Director of Research and Education at the Glendon Association and Senior Editor at PsychAlive.org. She is the author of numerous articles and book chapters and coauthor of the books Self Under Siege, Conquer Your Critical Inner Voice, and Creating a Life of Meaning and Compassion. Dr. Firestone is a national and international trainer and presenter on topics including couple relationships, attachment, suicide and violence prevention assessment and treatment Lisa has been involved in clinical training and research in the areas of suicide and violence which resulted in the development of the assessments Firestone Assessment of Self-destructive Thoughts (FAST) and (FASI) and the Firestone Assessment of Violent Thoughts (FAVT) for adults and adolescents. Lisa Firestone is a clinical psychologist in private practice and consultant on the management of high-risk clients. Resources for From Crisis to Connection: Attachment as a Lifeline with Dr. Lisa Firestone (292) Making Sense of Your Life – eCourse with Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Lisa Firestone (4 CEs) Challenging the Fantasy Bond – book by Dr. Robert Firestone Developing Secure Attachment  – Two-Part Online Course (2 CEs) Beyond Attachment Styles course is available NOW!   Learn how your nervous system, your mind, and your relationships work together in a fascinating dance, shaping who you are and how you connect with others. Online, Self-Paced, Asynchronous Learning with Quarterly Live Q&A’s – next one April 13, 2026! Earn 6 Continuing Education Credits – Available at Checkout As a listener of this podcast, use code BAS15 for a limited-time discount. Get your copy of Secure Relating here!! You are invited!  Join our exclusive community to get early access and discounts to things we produce, plus an ad-free, private feed. In addition, receive exclusive episodes recorded just for you. Sign up for our premium Neuronerd plan!! Click here!! Join us again in Washington, DC for the 49th Annual Psychotherapy Networker! March 19-22nd! In person and online options available. Get your discounted seat HERE!

This talk was given by Nikki Mirghafori on 2026.03.02 at the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, CA. ******* For more talks like this, visit AudioDharma.org ******* If you have enjoyed this talk, please consider supporting AudioDharma with a donation at https://www.audiodharma.org/donate/. ******* This talk is licensed by a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License

Sign up for our Family Retreats here at this  link: Retreats & Getaways | Joni and Friends --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Get your copy of our 2026 Annual Read: Tozer on the Son of God by A.W. Tozer.First Time?Start Here: https://bit.ly/MarinersconnectcardCan we pray for you? https://bit.ly/MarinersPrayerOnlineYou can find information for all our Mariners congregations, watch more videos, and learn more about us and our ministries on our website https://bit.ly/MarinersChurchSite.FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marinerschurch• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marinerschurch• Twitter: https://twitter.com/marinerschurch• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marinerschurchSupport the ministry and help us reach people worldwide: https://bit.ly/MarinersGive

Send Us Your Prayer Requests --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.