Dangerous Times: Indifference Toward Panic

The ancient Chinese sages teach of the special need for clear thinking and calm bravery in times of danger. Their wisdom reminds us that we should always be cultivating these attributes but they are particularly important in situations of risk and threat. Precisely the time when we most need disciplined patience and insightful clarity is when we are most inclined to panic and revert to old responses that are reflexive, habitual and ineffective.

We are beginning to see such ineffective responses to the issue of climate change. Politicians and the public and are now realizing that global warming is actually happening, that it is serious and we must take corrective action. In the evolution of awareness, we are just beginning the move from indifference toward panic. And just when we need cool reason and strategic wisdom, we are inclined to try solving new problems with old solutions.

Courier-Islander