I’ve had a strange compulsion since Donald Trump won the White House – I’m drawn to dystopian films and series. And, at the same time, I find myself reflecting deeply on what can be done when faced with overwhelming societal challenges.
I mean, it’s not just in the U.S. – if you’ve been paying attention, there’s a rise of far-right authoritarian movements worldwide imposing their will on anyone who doesn’t fit the mold of a straight, white, non-Jewish male.
My latest dystopian deep dive is re-visiting the early (origin) TV episodes of The Handmaid’s Tale (2017). Adapted from Margaret Atwood’s book about a totalitarian theocratic regime that replaces the U.S. government, enforcing extreme religious laws and a rigid social hierarchy. In this grim reality, women are stripped of their autonomy. Basic reproductive health rights, like choosing how and when to use birth control or being able to access safe abortions, are restricted or outlawed.
You could call aspects of The Handmaid’s Tale potential glimpses of what could unfold in the U.S. It delves into how democracy might unravel when confronted with unchecked power, extremist ideologies, and systemic inequalities. In particular, I would encourage anyone with teenagers and adult kids to watch at least the first season together and have an open discussion about the unsettling scenarios it presents and the importance of staying vigilant in protecting democratic values – discussions unlikely to happen in our schools in the current climate (also given that schools are already banning the book).
Of course, we could go nuts hand wringing over possible future scenarios – and Trump isn’t even in power yet. As a former reporter, I believe it’s important to be aware of what’s going on in the world, but, as an emotions therapist, I also believe it’s vital to cultivate a mental “escape hatch” – a way to release the mounting dread and protect your emotional well-being while navigating these turbulent times. There are countless books to recommend for this, but my simple, straight forward “go-to” is Buddhist Pema Chödrön’s simple yet profound little book called, When Things Fall Apart. It’s a gentle yet powerful guide to navigating life’s chaos with grace.
Rooted in Buddhist teachings, Pema offers practical wisdom on embracing pain, uncertainty, and fear as opportunities for growth. As I like to say, it’s a book that strokes your soul. Pema also includes a meditation, called Tonglen, that I highly recommend, especially for those grappling with waves of despair amid the turmoil and suffering around us. If you’d like to try it out, you can go here to do a short practice with me.
It feels good to release the burden.
You may recall that I’ve decided to share/confess my experience with advancing age – And I’m finally addressing my long history of self-body shaming (read my introduction for this here).
Every week this year, I am committed to owning up to my futile efforts to hold onto those last shreds of youth. While documenting and declaring these (embarrassing) foibles may not change my behavior, it will heighten my awareness of the many ways I compare myself to others and fall into envy. You can read this week’s revelation here.
With love,
Becca
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Becca Williams
Emotions Therapist & Registered Dietitian
An Emotions Therapist, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, educator, group facilitator, and longtime plant medicine advocate.
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