This diary has been inspired by Armando’s thought-provoking diary here: www.dailykos.com/…
For me, it crystallized thoughts I’ve had about the anger generated by this Democratic primary.
In my early years, I struggled with anger. But then I went on a years long spiritual quest in which I studied Buddhism among other world religions.
Buddhist philosophy enabled me to realize, for many of us, myself included, feeling angry gives us a feeling of power. But it is a false power that accomplishes nothing positive.
It took a while for me to move to a more centered place in which anger rarely possessed me. Now, any angry feelings I may have are like a quick, passing breeze that rustles the leaves of a tree for a few moments then it’s gone and the leaves come to rest.
Practicing centeredness has served me well over the years. Without my thoughts clouded by anger, I see situations far more clearly, develop solutions far more rapidly, and I’m far more likely to get what I want as a result.
The thing is — at times, this primary has triggered angry feelings in me that do not pass quickly. And I’ve been looking at that, observing my own thoughts, and observing the far too angry in-fighting between Clinton and Sanders supporters.(And I’m not just talking about in-fighting on Daily Kos. This has affected one of my longest-held friendships.)
One side needs to step up and say — no more — my fellow Hillary supporters, let it be us.
"Whoever doesn’t flare up at someone who’s angry wins a battle hard to win." – The Buddha
Let’s refrain from reading and/or responding to anti-Hillary diaries and comments, here or elsewhere. It’s not like we haven’t heard it all before, right?
I know it’s very tempting to jump in and defend Hillary. But it is far more productive to focus writing and rec-ing diaries that highlight her strengths, accomplishments and inspiring qualities.
Once we’re fully into the General Election, we’ll be encountering massive hate and anger from the Trump campaign. At that time, it will serve us to be practiced at being clear-thinking and centered in our support of Hillary, without giving their rage an iota of our energy.
And with that I'll end with a quote from Hillary:
Postscript:
For those who feel compelled to respond to Hate-Hillary comments, may I suggest you offer this Zen Prayer to diffuse the negativity:
May you be filled with Loving Kindness.
May you be Well.
May you be Peaceful and at Ease.
May you be Happy.