Being an Ordinary Visionary in Challenging Times5 min read
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Dear Reader: This is a conversation between me and my alter ego, Marcus. Marcus embodies all wisdom and has a knack for waking us up to our blindness. I invite you to listen in.
Robert: Marcus, I find myself asking, “how shall we live in this new “politically challenging” world as Ordinary Visionaries? “ I’ve got plenty of resources for resilience, but this era feels more complex, as if it’s tugging at the very foundations of who we are.
Marcus: Ah, Robert, a wise question to ask. This time is unlike any other, yet, in many ways, it’s as it has always been. Every age has its chaos, its turbulence, its rulers who rise and fall. The task of the Ordinary Visionary remains steady: to find the light within and to bring it forth, no matter how dense the darkness around them.
Robert: So, it’s about holding steady, keeping that light clear within ourselves, regardless of what’s happening outside?
Marcus: Yes, but with a specific kind of clarity. In times of unrest, many lose themselves in reaction or despair, fighting against the shadows of things they fear. An Ordinary Visionary instead turns inward to re-ignite their own sense of purpose, knowing that the outer world will reflect whatever they choose to strengthen within. It’s a discipline of inner work first.
Robert: And what of the divisiveness? Everywhere I look, it feels as if people are polarized, each one digging deeper into their stance. How does an Ordinary Visionary respond to this division?
Marcus: By cultivating empathy as their foundation. In every encounter, they choose to see the other’s humanity first. This is not about agreeing or condoning—it’s about choosing to understand. Let empathy guide your vision, so you don’t fall prey to becoming another voice in the noise. Think of it as anchoring yourself in kindness, even when others are swept up in outrage.
Robert: That sounds powerful, yet… challenging. It’s almost like staying detached but not indifferent. How can I maintain such a mindset without feeling as though I’m disengaging from the world?
Marcus: Precisely, Robert. It is a paradox, but one worth mastering. Imagine standing at the edge of a river in flood. You observe its power, its rawness, but you do not jump in. You witness the currents, but you keep your feet on solid ground. In this way, you can be fully engaged with life while keeping yourself aligned with your deepest values, free from the undertow of anger or fear. Let your vision guide you—not as a mere spectator, but as one who chooses his steps mindfully.
Robert: So, part of this involves creating a space within myself that doesn’t get swayed, no matter what’s happening externally. I get that. But as an Ordinary Visionary, I feel there must be more than simply standing apart. Shouldn’t there also be action?
Marcus: Of course. Action is vital, but it must be wise action. A Visionary knows that to create real change, one must act with a clear mind and an open heart. Find the actions that align with your values that serve the greater good rather than just momentary gratification or retaliation. Let every step be purposeful, rooted in the intention to elevate rather than conquer.
Robert: So it’s not about fighting against something but rather for something?
Marcus: Precisely. Resist the temptation to fight against the world, for this is where many falter, thinking that battle alone brings transformation. Instead, build toward what you envision—seek connection, amplify truth, foster understanding. Stand for values that bring humanity closer, even if others are tearing it apart.
Robert: And what do I do with my anger, Marcus? I won’t deny it. Sometimes, I feel so furious at the lies, the manipulation, and the divisiveness from both sides, frankly! How can I approach that in a way that doesn’t consume me?
Marcus: Anger is natural, Robert, a response to seeing what is misaligned with your values. But do not let it be your master. Feel it, acknowledge it, then release it as a bird in flight, not a stone to hurl. Use its energy to fuel the work of your vision rather than falling into bitterness. An Ordinary Visionary sees anger as a compass, pointing them toward where they’re called to make a difference, not a weapon to wield against others.
Robert: That’s… freeing, actually. If I see my anger as a guide rather than a burden, it becomes almost empowering. But I still wonder—how do I know my vision is right? How do I ensure I’m not adding to the very chaos I wish to transcend?
Marcus: By constantly returning to presence, Robert. The Visionary is in service to awareness, not their own ego. With every action, every word, pause to listen within. Ask yourself if this choice uplifts or divides, if it serves only yourself or others as well. An Ordinary Visionary is humble enough to question their own motives and wise enough to let them go when they no longer serve.
Robert: So, if I can stay connected to that sense of inner peace, grounded in empathy and guided by values, then I can create something of lasting worth, regardless of the world’s noise?
Marcus: Yes, and in doing so, you transcend the moment. Your light becomes a beacon not just for yourself but for others who may feel lost in this time. Your actions ripple beyond what you can see, strengthening the fabric of what is good and true. This is the way of the Ordinary Visionary: to live as a point of light in the tapestry, knowing each thread contributes to the strength of the whole.
Robert: Marcus, I feel that shift in me already. I see that my work isn’t to battle against the dark but to build toward the light. Thank you for helping me find that clarity.
Marcus: You have found it within yourself, Robert. Remember, you are the vision you seek, and in living it, you make the world anew. Stand firm, let empathy guide you, and know that in every quiet, steady act, you are creating a future far brighter than this moment might suggest.
Robert: I’ll remember that.
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