Ep 110 - Compassion in The Time of Violence

“Who we are being already changes the world.” -Leslieann Hobayan

In this episode, I share my thoughts about the pain and suffering that’s happening all around the world, particularly the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

There are a lot of conversations arising on this topic, from what is behind the invasion of Ukraine to neighboring countries opening their borders to refugees. What I’ve noticed is that white folks have been easily welcomed as refugees while brown folks who were also feeling conflict and seeking refuge were being denied entry, often to the point of being beaten down off fences.

In times like this, how can we help? I mean really help? And will our help–whatever that looks like– really make a difference?

I recount the times when I joined demonstrations, marching for what I thought was right, including protesting against the invasion of Iraq after 9/11 and, more recently, the Women’s March in 2017. I talk about how sometimes our actions feel feeble, maybe even * seemingly * useless.

Each of us feels the need to take action, to help shift violence into peace and understanding, and to create balance in the world. But often we wonder: are our actions enough? Is it enough to donate money? To write and call our representatives? To participate in protests? Can BE-ing who we are truly creating the change we need?

Take a listen to discover possibilities to these questions..

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Follow me on Instagram for Maverick Mondays, Free Verse Fridays, and some real talk about healing, poetry, AND play: @leslieannhobayan or email me at leslieann@suryagian.com

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Today’s poems/ Books / Oracle mentioned:

• “The Bag Lady” by Hafiz
• “Vestige” by Michelle Penaloza