The attempted assassination of former president Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania yesterday marks a sad chapter in tumultuous times. I fear for our country. I want to help, but it’s hard to know where to put my efforts.
The only thing I can think of is to do what I can to make my corner of the world a little better.
the world is in a bad state, but everything will become still worse unless each of us does his best
—Viktor E. Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning
I happened to be listening to the former president’s daughter, Ivanka, yesterday (before the shooting). She was discussing her approach to dealing with criticism and negative commentary while in the White House. A central tenet for her was to focus on what she could control, which included her own response. She felt that it harmed her as much as anyone to respond in kind, or even to respond at all.
I need this advice as much as the next person:
- focus on what is around you today, at this very moment
- deploy empathy, compassion, and curiosity
- contribute positive energy in as many ways as you can, in word and deed
It’s taken us a long time to get here. We’re not going to fix it immediately.
Start small. Do your best.
Matt's Blog 
Leave a comment