We seem to have become a much more self-centred society – “all about “me” and I don’t care who I climb over or hurt on the way”. It’s scary. We see extraordinary examples of this every day on the news – supposed leaders having 2 year old temper tantrums, speaking rudely and insultingly to anyone who disagrees with them or who doesn’t adore them, and who threaten retribution to those who criticise.

If our “leaders” can behave in this rude and bullying way, that must mean it’s ok, right?

NO, NO, NO. A most emphatic NO. All that results from these attitudes and behaviours is an escalation of disharmony, of people being scared and unhappy, depressed and anxious.

Let’s get back to a society based on values – not religious dogma, but on human values. Things like kindness, co-operation, sharing, truth, honesty, protection of the vulnerable, protection of the environment, generosity of spirit.

Wouldn’t it be great if we could magically change things overnight. Unfortunately, magic doesn’t happen like that. There is magic, but it is the magic of us all picking up our share of the responsibility for changing these attitudes and behaviours in ourselves and in our own surroundings. If these attitudes and behaviours are happening around you, then consider if you can do anything differently to change things. It’s always tempting to respond in kind but I remember my mother saying that you can catch more flies with honey that with vinegar. Of course, if the other person is unwilling to change, then you might need to consider leaving that situation. What is important to remember is that none of us has to put up with being treated as if we don’t matter. Just as Doctors recently have changed the Hippocratic oath to include their own self-care and well-being so that they can better treat their patients, we must all do this.  Each one of us is just as important as the next person. It’s important to teach this to our children as well – that they must treat others as they themselves would like to be treated, and that they must expect the same in return from others.

Let’s not get overwhelmed with the size of the task though. Start small. Be kind to yourself and to your family. Thank them for the small things that make life go smoothly, for the kind things they have done, for tasks completed, for not needing to be reminded, for their smiles. Listen to their grievances and see if they can be eased. Ask them to do the same for you.

And then, when the world is scary, you and your family will have a safe haven.