Good morning , my fellow brave human

Last week, we explored the concept of surrender - letting go of what we cannot control and finding peace in accepting consequences of speaking truth to power. This week, I want to build on that theme by exploring something that might seem counterintuitive in these challenging times: the power of play.

Yesterday, during a 1:1 session with one of our Brave Collective members, I was asked, "How do we stay resourced in a world that feels yuck?"

This hit home as last week, one of our members who recently moved here from the US, shared their experience of watching vital refugee and humanitarian services they had worked with over there being dismantled, leaving thousands without access to essential support. As a result he feels devastated, uncomfortable and unsafe.

It’s only been two weeks since the new America has kicked in, and already the impact of what is happening in the US is being felt by many wherever in the world they are.

The creation of fear and uncertainty is, by those perpetrating it, deliberate – designed to leave us paralysed or seeking distraction through endless scrolling or having “just one more drink….”

We seem to be witnessing a mass of collective narcissism in leadership - on the world stage, and closer to home in toxic work environments, or even in family relationships. This isn’t going away.

But what if the act of play is in itself a form of resistance?

Over the weekend I experienced two brilliant things that gave me both pause for thought and hope, because it began to answer this question.

First, I went to Edinburgh to watch the Shen Yun Chinese classical ballet – an amazing display of artistic resistance telling the story of the Falon Gong, a group no longer allowed to practice in China and who face real persecution. It was beautiful.

Then as soon as it finished we popped in next door to the amazing CC Blooms, which was showing a drag show. It was just brilliant. Everyone there, just being themselves, no judgement, freedom to play, to express joy and to laugh.

I know that many in that room may not have felt that same safety after leaving to get on with their daily lives. 

Joy, imagination and creativity are powerful forms of resistance and the energy from them can actively counter fear. Effectively play is like holding up a big finger of love and kindness to those who perpetrate fear.

My weekend has illustrated to me that even in challenging times in a world of yuck, there are ways to bring back and maintain our energy and hope.

February Walk & Talk

Speaking of which, I'd love you to join us for our upcoming Walk & Talk at Tyninghame Beach on 22nd February. 

We'll be gathering at 10am at the Tyninghame Links car park. The walk is suitable for all abilities - we will probably be about 3 hours or so. Bring wellies and warm clothes. And let’s play!

Reply to this email and I’ll book you in. I’ll send you further details nearer the time.

Also, I’d love you to join our BE monthly online sessions. If any of the above resonates, and you’d like to regularly meet other like-minded people to explore your own brave journey in this mad, mad world, then hit the button below to find out more.

Explore BE here

Here’s to your brilliance.

Kirsty x

P.S. If the Walk & Talk interests you but you can't make this date, let me know - we'll be running more throughout the year.

PPS: forward this to someone who you think may enjoy receiving these, or want to join The Brave Collective.