As I listened to Lee’s lovely new song, Axis Mundi*, I realized it is a concept that can help me cultivate deeper meaning in the New Year. Axis Mundi is Latin for “Axis of the world” referring to the spiritual connection between the heavens, earth and underworld. It’s concept that has been utilized since ancient times in mythology and in religions.
The need to deeply understand, appreciate and act on our connections to one another, the earth and the greater universe pulls at me. The growing divisiveness caused by greed and prejudice makes me more determined to bring in the light—this feels more meaningful than any New Year’s resolution.
Here are some thoughts on how this might work for me and maybe for you.
CONSIDER HOW YOU CAN HONOR MORE PEOPLE
Our nonprofit, GreenRoom Exchange, provides a remarkable opportunity to recognize the beauty and depth of other cultures though the universal language of music. We get to see the lights turn on as others recognize the extraordinary talent around the world. There is no room for prejudice, repression and servitude of others, period. I want to speak and act more openly to this. Consider how you can stand up for the rights of others.
BE AWARE OF YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE EARTH
I recycle, use clean detergent sheets, have solar panels, feed the birds and support nature organizations but that’s just the basics. I could have a pollinator garden and be more active in advocating for all the issues that are putting our water, air and lands at risk. We’re facing a crisis while the powers that be exploit our earth for money making opportunities. It has to stop.
NOTICE AND ACT ON THE CONCEPT THAT WE ARE INTERCONNECTED
“What happens to one happens to all” and “everything matters”, are concepts I embrace. So how does that get operationalized? It means paying attention to your words, deeds and most of all your thoughts that drive those things to ensure that you are recognizing our interconnectedness to everything around us. Everything you do makes a difference – make it kind, loving, helpful, impactful.
How does this speak to you? Reach out if you’d like to explore it.
*Picture – My 100 year old sycamore tree is an excellent symbol of Axis Mundi – a bridge between heaven, earth and the underworld.
*Video – Song “Axis Mundi” by Lee Carroll, being performed by Lee Carroll, keys, Robert Frahm, guitar, Danny Cecil, bass and Zach Brock, violin.
