Many of us are stunned by the recent campaign and presidential election. And, inevitably, with the shock comes fear and other negative responses. Often when structures – both individually and collectively – outlive their use, they become shadow and destruct, eventually creating space for the new structures to come. For now, the shadow has seemingly been victorious over the Light yet it is vital to take the larger view and avoid the easy temptation to enter the shadow with fear,  hate, or violence of any kind.

I am reminded of an interview I once heard the BBC give to a young Tibetan monk who had seen his brothers murdered and his sacred temple destroyed in Tibet under the Chinese invaders. When asked what his response to the Chinese is (aka, the enemy), the young monk replied, ” I am sorry for them and the negative karma they are creating for themselves.”

Of course, as Americans, we must act as well. However, if we could first center ourselves, detach, then with firm resolve, move to action without the weight of fear and hate, the result in two or four years will gain momentum and carry a greater victory in its own time.

As a writer and teacher of writing, I believe in the power of story. So let us create a strong and positive story about the world and remember, as a great sage in India once told me, “How can you fear the world which you create at each and every moment?” So let us center, visualize, and create a better world with better leaders tomorrow. For therein rests the ultimate power.