How often do we hear today about the imminent collapse of social structures in the western world? How often are we told that the once solid foundations of basic trust and solidarity are cracking at the seams? Often, and although they are sometimes attempts by politicians to grab the media limelight, it is no secret that at the same time that icebergs are melting in Antarctica and our financial system is suffering from a meltdown that social structures which once provided a sense of belonging, security and trust are found severely lacking.
As it is budgetary considerations, and the accompanying cuts in social services dampen even more the possibility for social change. Now is "obviously" not the right time for social experiments, but for more efficient use of our diminishing social and economic resources. However I think now is exactly the right time, what is there to wait for?
I want you to imagine a "special" room, which could be in a kindergarten, school, hospital, bank, factory or home. This alternative environment is created to enable all experience a sense of peace and quiet, simple joy and well-being.
A good room to "collapse" into you might say. And why not, because it is a "safe" space where we can relax, look within ourselves and feel and touch our inner strength.
We have a weekly study group in our house in which we study Spiritual Jewish Texts. The learning takes place in this special safe environment, a supportive place where we can listen to our inner voices and feel a new respect for ourselves and others.
I don't feel the same in other places and other groups, where the focus is more outer-oriented and lacking depth. I know I have to function in that outer world but how much time and energy do I need to devote to it?
We all take part in numerous groups of one kind or another. If you already take part in a group which celebrates a sacred safe space, good for you. If not, try introducing in just one group once a week a time to listen to music, to be silent together for a few minutes, a time to share those important moments of the week and a time for some sort of activity which takes you out of the routine and mundane.
And what about the imminent social collapse? Well, that we can talk about after we have experienced being in our special, safe space, our sacred space.
