Teresa Waters

Many of us live on Salt Spring in hopes of experiencing a bit of an oasis from the intensity of modern living. That can happen. And, pain and stressful challenges also happen-- in our private lives and throughout our community. In addition, we may carry a heavy awareness of the precarious condition of our planet. Our land, ocean, climate, politics, social issues, economics-- the whole jumble can leave us feeling subtly or severely hopeless about the present and the future. When we feel that way, we are not able to pro-actively do things that may contribute to positive change on any level: Hopelessness and action don't “wire and fire” together. So what can help us mobilize? We have to start somewhere. That somewhere begins with ourselves. Julie Andrews was on to something when she sang: “I simply remember my favorite things, and then I don’t feel so bad…” Julie is referring to personal resources: things that evoke a feeling of safety and promote a sense of well-being. I am g…