“Not my Problem” is not a solution
I’ve written before in SWS about humankind’s addiction to bad news. The mainstream theory goes something like this… We are neurologically programmed to scan our environment for negative stimuli, or anything that is a threat to our survival. Following negative news articles serves our self-preservation purpose.
But self-preservation of this kind is not much of an issue anymore, and the addiction can lead to cognitive distortions, where individuals may develop a skewed perception of reality. They might start to see the world around them as more dangerous or harmful than it is. Or perhaps over time, continuous exposure to traumatic news stories might lead to emotional desensitisation or numbing resulting in a lack of empathy and compassion.
As a balance I recommend a brilliant organisation called Fix the News. It a rational counterpoint to the doomscrolling of daily life. You can signup for free to receive their inspirational weekly newsletter.
Having said all that I’m now going to ask for ten minutes of your time to watch something that is definitely not good news. This short documentary features more wooden boats than you would see in a year here in Australia, but that’s not what its about. Please try to find the time to sit down and watch this (preferably not on your ‘phone) with the sound turned up loud and giving it your full attention.
Its on a free streaming platform called WATERBEAR but you will have to sign up.
The film hears from three people living and working on the Coast of Ghana. We hear from them about how life is changing with a backdrop of unregulated trawling and government inaction on plastic waste which plagues the coastal communities and ocean.
And remember, all oceans are joined. Your problem is my problem and any solutions will benefit us all.
