#11 Nina Simons: Shifting Our Culture from Death-Affirming to Life-Affirming

That COVID-19 is presenting an opportunity to shift from an "I" consciousness to a "We" consciousness; to recognize we are all one family on this Earth.

That a culture informed by patriarchy, capitalism and an extractive economy has oriented us towards activity and what’s outside, rather than reflection and what's on the inside.

That there is a gift in having to shelter in place, allowing time for becoming more mindful of our inner state which can bring us into action in a whole different way.

That our capacity to feel joy is related to our capacity to face the challenging, dark stuff within.

That the Just Transition model recognizes the full interdependence of economy, ecology and culture; describing how we can shift from a system of extraction and exploitation, to one centered in caring, well-being and regeneration.

That the absence of travel has meant a growing tendency to localize, to get to know our neighbors and to increase involvement in local politics and issues.

That there’s an increased awareness that everything has always been uncertain, despite the illusion of certainty and security.

That it’s not just about reclaiming power from the top, but for many in the middle range of having power and privilege to be willing to give something up and take risks for change.