When a 5.2 magnitude earthquake hit San Diego this week, these elephants formed a
circle with two young ones in the center and the others facing outward in a protective
stance.
As an adult woman, I am asking myself: How are we, the most experienced and
powerful generation of women in America – protecting the young ones now, during this
time of environmental, political, and economic upheaval?
Each of us is needed here to step in and set things right. Needed at our full strength and
in our full power with the courage that comes from our huge hearts and the strength
we’ve gained from so much living.
As the digital world becomes more distorted—fueled by algorithms, artificiality, and
overwhelm—presence in real life is becoming radical.
Your essence, presence, tenderness, and fierceness are just the medicine we all need.
Here’s a list of ideas for things to do. See if one of these resonates with you.
You don’t have to go viral to change the world.
Grounding in Resilience and Healing
- Holding space for collective grief, trauma recovery, and spiritual grounding that allows others to act from clarity rather than fear.
- Sharing practices like meditation, caregiving, earth stewardship, and community-building that help others sustain themselves during upheaval.
Civic Engagement and Advocacy
- Organizing or participating in local groups focused on social justice, voting rights, reproductive rights, education, environmental protection, and gun safety.
- Volunteering with or donating to organizations that advocate for policies that protect future generations.
- Contacting representatives, attending town halls, and holding elected officials accountable.
Storytelling and Public Witness
- Writing books, essays, and op-eds that share personal stories and cultural memory to reframe current challenges in light of historical cycles and hard-won progress.
- Speaking publicly to help dismantle disinformation, provide hope, and encourage collective responsibility.
Intergenerational Bridge-Building
- Creating or participating in spaces—formal or informal—where different generations can share perspectives and collaborate.
- Hosting dialogues, book clubs, art gatherings, or community projects that encourage mutual understanding and shared action.
Financial Power and Philanthropy
- Redirecting wealth toward regenerative, justice-focused, or community-based organizations and movements.
- Supporting young leaders and new projects through scholarships, investment, or microgrants.
Protecting Truth and Education
- Volunteering in schools or libraries to ensure young people have access to accurate, inclusive, and empowering information.
- Supporting educators, curriculum initiatives, and independent media.
Mentoring and Legacy Leadership
- Sharing wisdom, professional skills, and hard-earned life lessons with younger women and marginalized communities.
- Acting as mentors, coaches, and advisors to activists, educators, nonprofit founders, and emerging leaders.
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