Via Basel: Response and Gratitude
A deep sense of gratitude fills me as I see the responses to my last post on EIL, “Could this be my last column?”—both in terms of readership and the love and encouragement received. I write mainly from the heart, and you have responded in kind. I do, however, want to clarify and contextualize some of what I wrote regarding the continuity of my column.
As you probably noticed, there was a sense of frustration and disappointment in the tone of the previous article. My question about continuity was driven by the fear of an external entity censoring or prohibiting me from expressing my views, not by a voluntary decision to stop. This was likely an exaggeration and hyperbole on my part, perhaps fueled by a dose of inflated ego.
Honestly, I am a small fish in a vast sea of resistance to this administration’s authoritarianism and cruelty. The chances of my voice being shut down are very, very small. However, as I mentioned in my previous post, I have a deep-seated allergy to being censored or muzzled, stemming from my past. Given that this regime has broken so many norms and laws and gotten away with it, nothing feels entirely out of the realm of possibility. Of course, it has much bigger fish to fry than my small post and voice. This brings me to my next important point.
My meditation teacher, Shinzen Young, said this repeatedly years ago: **Small is significant.** I loved this principle and have lived by it.
You don’t need big achievements, grand discoveries, or great acts of courage or charity to be effective, or to find meaning and fulfillment in your life. In fact, the most important changes in our world come from small, sustained, coordinated, and complementary acts performed by average people who possess a conscience and a sense of agency and urgency. The cumulative effect of millions and millions of small acts of resistance, kindness, courage, and love can move mountains and overturn dynasties and tyrannies.
But you must believe in yourself and work in communion with fellow humans of your ilk. Your small acts will multiply exponentially, potentiate, and inspire others to do the same. Choose your field, utilize your creativity and expertise, and plunge in.
Finally, whatever you do, release yourself from the outcome. Just do it for one best reason: You authentically believe it is the right thing to do.
Don’t worry, dear readers. I am not stopping or giving up on my quest for peace, kindness, and justice in the world, and I hope you won’t either. Back in a few weeks.
By the way, Happy Valentine’s Day
Basel Al-Aswad, father of EIL founder Christopher Al-Aswad, is a yogi trapped in an Orthopedic Surgeon’s body. His loves in life include reading, writing, hiking, enjoying nature, meditation, and spending time with his large Iraqi family; now, semi-retired, he is exploring new avenues in medicine, education, public speaking, teaching, and social engagement.
Very well said, Basel. Thank you.