October 8, 2024

From a Global and Local News Perspective

It’s always interesting to read the news and see what’s going on in Iceland and around the world. Sometimes it feels good when the world takes a positive step, but the news these days is commonly depressing. Iceland is no exception, because terrible things happen even in our peaceful and safe society, as evidenced by the unusually high number of murders this year. And what can be done when the news becomes particularly depressing?

One way is to stop reading the news and social media, then turn off CNN and Sky News. Then you can see your world without distraction and concentrate on what is positive, beautiful, and good. However, one’s own world is not always positive, beautiful, and good. Fortunately, the days vary. Even more so for those who, like us, live in a peaceful country free of the threat of war.

When you stop reading and watching the news, your attention shifts to your environment. The horizon narrows, and you begin to think more about yourself and your own world. Narcissism can become overwhelming and create an unpleasant feeling.

By following the news from around the world, you can empathize with those who are experiencing difficulties and rejoice with those who are experiencing good times. Of course, one must ensure that the world news does not control one’s own well-being and that what is in the news or on social media does not control one’s own life.

Therefore, it may be a good idea to take a vacation from the news, social media, and TV news in order to cleanse your mind. Some suggestions include reading something interesting, meditating, listening to uplifting music, or taking a stroll in the gloomy, chilly autumn air. Sometimes it’s like restarting your brain.

Of course, I’m adding a photo to this article that I took while meditating in my own world during the chilly, gray autumn weather when the first winter ice covered the peaceful fjord.