It seems to me that many people do not really resonate with either side of the polarized popular discourse about race, gender, and DEI, and an increasing number are either waking up to a sense that ‘their side’ is not as right as they thought, or are actively resisting both extremes of the conversation. I also sense a widespread desire and need for more developed, nuanced, and helpful explanations for what is happening and why in relation to these topics in our culture, so I am offering an essay here in an attempt to meet that need and desire (knowing that it is just one of many attempts, and will not be what many people want or expect). You could think of it as a public service announcement—or at least that evokes something of the spirit of my intention.
I also realize that this essay is probably too long and dense for most people, but I hope that if you read it you will find deep resonance with some of the words and ideas, and that you recognize here a kind of common sense-making that feels true and good and familiar, even if you’ve never quite thought of things this way before and wouldn’t have used these words yourself. And whether common sense or not, I hope those who read on will be able to tell that it is truly an expression of love for our common humanity, which I feel very deeply. I ask that you please try to read it with a generous heart and an open mind, and with a desire to understand.
I am honored that the good people at Integral Life are hosting the piece, along with pdf and ebook options, and will also be offering me a chance to discuss these ideas on their platform, so stay tuned for that. Also know that this is really just a preview or prolegomenon to a future expansion of these ideas, which will hopefully manifest in a book form that will find its way to every person who is seeking a just and healthy way to heal and integrate the collective trauma that we are all processing together. May that process become ever-more conscious and efficacious, and may these words be in service of that healing.
Read the essay here: