Honouring Ebb and Flow: Paths Toward Regenerative Movement Building Through Collective Care

 

Every day, I am find myself reflecting on the reality that the journey toward healing and justice is far from straightforward. The struggles endured by our ancestors were immense and complex, yet their unwavering spirit and resilience carved a path for us today. It is because of their relentless determination in the face of adversity that we stand proudly and firmly, embodying the bravery and sacrifices they made. We are not just beneficiaries of their efforts; we are living proof of their courage and the liberation dreams they fought for.

Right now the world feels overwhelmed by crisis, leaving many human rights defenders and communities grappling with grief, rage, fear, and despair. It’s crucial to take a moment to reflect on our emotions and seek solace in our connections with one another. While here, let us resist the desire to isolate. 

Try not to take too long because we need you.

Your beloved, strangers, adversaries alike, including the planet itself needs you to be your most authentic and best self for the work ahead. 

 

Recently, I had the privilege of co-facilitating a transformative well-being workshop tailored for a group of African human rights defenders. These courageous individuals are working tirelessly to bring about peace while confronting the troubling surge of human rights violations plaguing their homeland. Our goal was to equip them with ideas and tools to centre well-being and collective care in their work. We aimed to ignite a flicker of hope amidst the overwhelming feelings of stagnation, helplessness, and the relentless fatigue that often accompanies their fight against injustice, violence, and deep-seated inequality.

During our time together, we created a nurturing space where participants were invited to start each day with meaningful reflections. These reflections centered on gratitude, invting them to acknowledge any capacities, relationships, and connections that serve as vital lifelines that motivate them to rise each morning ready to tackle the challenging work that lies ahead. Our sessions were filled with shared experiences, heartfelt conversations, and a collective understanding that while the fight is arduous, we are not alone in the journey.

Yes, we are not alone because guess what? Even if we have not met personally, these relationships include you. Now more than ever, we need and belong to each other. 

Whenever you are ready, we will be here. We remain hopeful and ready to collaborate to intentionally build an Ubuntu-centered world and planet rooted in self-compassion and  collective care. A world that respects our dignity and sense of humanity. A world freeing itself from scarcity mindsets. A world seeking a new way of being filled with loving-kindness. A world that not only survives but also thrives. 

But for now, let us take a moment to rest and tend to ourselves. Soon, we will be ready to turn up with renewed energy, clearer minds and open hearts.