All jobs have occupational hazards that make performing a task risky. The degree to which they interfere with daily life varies. In the digital world I am exposed to violet images, some times debilitating. This hazard is one that I tread lightly yet knocks me down from time to time.

Scientists have studied the time-altering consequences of information overload online. Our brains were not designed to take in this much information at once. Regardless of our destructive behavior, we as a species still seek life. Dropping into the present, as always, is the answer.

At the intersection of science and popular understanding, we may ask, “Why is there so much suffering in the world?” to which I say opt to only let love into your field for a day. This includes and starts with your own thoughts. Get to know your field, your thoughts, your feelings.

Navigating consciousness also requires navigating ones own thoughts and relationship to collective stories. Some call this the collective conscious. We are not only at war with ideas but are occupying stolen lands trying to come to a sense of self and back to communities we were not raised in.

I have come to understand that the most radical act of healing is giving your oppressor back to the collective as if to say, “No, I did not raise this man.” It takes a village to uphold rape culture. To assert no possession over another, even in grief. To add space for protection.

Instead of saying, “my rapist,” I have opted to the name of act of sexual assault and the culture that upholds act of violence as minor offenses versus an earth shattering event. The topic of sexual violence is pervasive in the collective consciousness and deserves space for softness and vulnerability.

I choose peace with boundaries, instead of violence knowing that some use violence to uphold peace. I try to internalize my sense of knowing that no matter how blissful or horrific a moment may be, I can cultivate peace in my heart.

As the world turns, wars play out within the mind and hearts of many, I choose to live to my own rhythm. I write to many I will not meet and some who have transformed my life with one meeting along the way. I understand that I can only move forward with courage alone and within good company.

With love,

Cass