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January 23 - Why Try to Hold Back the Ocean When You Can Float on the Waves?

Writer's picture: Anna KlinmanAnna Klinman

“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” Antoine de Saint Exupery, The Little Prince


awareness

“A mind that is stretched to a new idea never returns to its original dimension.” Oliver Wendell Holmes


awareness

Awareness as a human value refers to the quality of being conscious, cognizant, and attentive to oneself, others, and the surrounding environment. It encompasses a deep understanding and recognition of one's thoughts, emotions, actions, and their impact on oneself and others. As Rick Hansen describes it in his book, Resilient, awareness involves "holding your reactions in a spacious awareness that is itself never disturbed by whatever passes through it".


As a value, awareness involves the cultivation of mindfulness, perceptiveness, and sensitivity towards oneself and the world. It entails being present in the moment, observing and acknowledging one's own experiences, and actively engaging with the external world. In her book, Do Nothing, Celeste Headlee points out that modern society often suffers from a "split consciousness or 'absent presence'" where individuals are not fully attentive to their actions or words.


Awareness as a human value encompasses various dimensions that contribute to personal growth, empathy, and responsibility.


Self-Awareness, as Daniel J. Siegel explains in his book Aware, involves understanding one's own thoughts, emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs. It enables individuals to have a clear perception of their own identity, goals, and desires, fostering introspection and self-improvement.


Emotional Awareness, according to Rick Hansen, refers to recognizing and understanding one's own emotions and the emotions of others. It entails being attuned to one's feelings and empathetically perceiving and responding to the emotions of others. This dimension promotes effective communication, empathy, and healthy relationships.


Social Awareness pertains to being cognizant of the social dynamics, cultural contexts, and diversity present in society. It involves recognizing and respecting the perspectives, needs, and experiences of others. Social awareness promotes inclusivity, tolerance, and the ability to navigate complex social interactions.


Environmental Awareness focuses on recognizing and understanding the interdependence between humans and the natural environment. It involves an appreciation of the impact of human activities on ecosystems, climate, and biodiversity. Environmental awareness encourages sustainable practices, responsible stewardship, and a sense of interconnectedness with nature.


Global Awareness entails recognizing and appreciating the interconnectedness of global systems, such as politics, economics, and cultures. It involves understanding global challenges, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and promoting collaboration for the benefit of humanity.


By valuing awareness, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of themselves, others, and the world around them. It nurtures personal growth, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards oneself and the broader community. As Nicole Lepera emphasizes in How To Do the Work, awareness empowers choice and enables individuals to be present for life.


Ultimately, awareness as a human value contributes to the cultivation of a more conscious, compassionate, and harmonious society. Diana Winston describes in writing The Little Book of Being, awareness as a "capacity of the human mind" that allows for direct knowing, perception, sensing, feeling, and cognitive awareness of experience. By embracing awareness, individuals can tap into their inner strengths and contribute to positive change in themselves and the world around them.


Activity: Mindful Coloring

Engage in coloring intricate patterns or mandalas while focusing on your breathing and being present in the moment. Let your mind relax and observe any thoughts or emotions that arise during the process.

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