Reboot

/ˌriːˈbuːt/ (of a computer) to switch off and then start again immediately, or to make a computer do this: If this doesn’t work, close the application and reboot the system.

 – Cambridge English Dictionary

How are you enjoying your reboot? As we take a closer look at the malfunctioning applications in our lives, what are the ‘bugs’ that we are encountering? One thing has became apparent to me, that a fundamental shift in our mindset some time ago, has set us off course to such a degree that our present day external crisis is a clear reflection of the inner crisis we have been feeling as individuals for some time.

Even as far back as a couple of hundred years ago we were living in relative harmony with our planet and its inhabitants. Starting with the industrial revolution, the race to be bigger, better and best has taken a toll on the Earth, on our animal kingdom and not in any way least, ourselves. Today we live in the most technologically advanced world, built to provide the kind of comfort and ease that mankind has never known before, yet as a whole, we are feeling confused, unhappy and unfulfilled.

At some point we bought into the story of lack. We began to believe we were not enough and thus began the race to prove ourself. There is a parallel story here; every human being’s deepest desire to be more, to grow and to expand. We have confused this inner evolution for external validation.

How much more do we need to accumulate before we feel enough? Let’s realise that personal growth is not signified by a heftier bank account or more expensive things. Acquiring more is not the same as being more. It’s time to open our eyes to the fact that there hasn’t been much inner progression for some time. As a species, our self-centredness and entitlement have kept us confined to a level of immaturity which now needs to be transcended.

The sole purpose of our planet and all its living creatures is not to serve us. I think we have grossly misunderstood our ‘Specialness’. With our misguided superiority we have taken what we wanted without one thought for where it’s coming from and who’s suffering as a result. This lack of regard and respect for the other has cost us our own happiness. And it’s right here, in this flawed mindset that both the problem and the solution lie. There is no ‘other’. 

It’s time to grow up, and realise that we are just a minor part of the greater whole. It’s time to remember that our responsibility extends beyond ourself to our planet, all the creatures that inhabit it and to each other. The illusion of separation must come to end before any healing or returning to our original state of wholeness can begin.

 

 

Best
Afshan x