On the one hand, there are all the signs that we’re on the precipice and it’s going to be baaaad. Convenient and amazing as AI is, it accelerates the black hole of capital being sucked into the hands of just a few people.

On the other hand, I’m told as a forty-something woman that I need to focus on building muscle. Lifting weights at the end of the world seems a distraction. and yet… every time I open my browser there’s someone vigorously doing pull-ups and ready to give me helpful tips. This could be me!

What to do in times like these, times of great suffering, great change, great self-centredness and shallowness?

We keep growing. We need connection, we need to know we can do hard things, and we need progress. Because through growing, we change.

One positive thing about being a white South African is that I am never far from the knowledge that I am as capable as anyone, anywhere, of great harm. I know I am made of the same stuff as my ancestors, and that means that probably, I am made of the same stuff of the billionaires or (fill in the blank) doing great harm to the world.

But I also know that I am made of the same stuff as those who are finding better ways.

Be the change

So the act of growing, of planting, of staying grounded and connected to both life and death, is a profound act of hope. Do small things every day. Shut out distraction and just keep growing.

And, if you’re me, put a blocker on the websites that make you more shallow, more angry or outraged.

Sorry, a short one this week because of Women’s day. Happy Women’s Day! May your day and week be full of depth, joy, and hope

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