Dear Energy Lady

Dear Energy Lady,
It seems as if the world is getting more and more filled with hate.  Every time I turn on the news, someone is getting shot or blown up because of their religion or race or just because someone went nuts with a gun in a public place.   It's getting to the point where I'm afraid to go out of the house. 
Do you have any energetic advice for me?

Signed,
Scared

Dear Scared,
It's easy to see why you might think the world is filled with hate, because pain and suffering make people pay attention, and that sells papers and draws advertisers and blog hits.   Also, getting angry and upset make some people feel more powerful and alive, at least temporarily.  In the end, all hate and anger is exhausting, as it is not our true nature.

Here's a little challenge for you:  every time you hear or see something that feels like hate coming alive, look around you and ask, "Where is the love in this moment?"  You might find it in your own heart, but you are just as likely to see something beautiful, kind or extraordinary in other people or the environment. Sometimes, a door will open for you to perform an act of kindness in that moment, even if it's just giving away a smile and having someone return it (have you ever noticed that it's almost impossible not to smile at someone who's smiling at you?).

The other thing you can do is to lessen the amount of time you spend watching and pursuing the news--at least the front pages and headlines.  Newspapers are also filled with lots of happy news about people who are making a positive difference for themselves and others in business, sports, the arts, science, health and more.   The comics are always good for a laugh, too. 

As for your own personal safety, do what you can to be aware of your surroundings and make smart choices.  But if you find your fears growing too large and limiting your choices, you may want to seek professional counseling to help you unknot them.

This said, you can also increase the protective energy around you by 1) setting the intention to be safe;  2) saying--out loud--"I choose safety" whenever you leave the house; and 3) staying present in the moment and making safe choices.    Remember, however, that it is how you feel, not what you say or intend, that determines your life experience, so if you continue to feel challenged emotionally, you might want to look into tapping, The Sedona Method, The Work (by Byron Katie) or meditation to help you let go of the thoughts which are creating the negative feelings you are experiencing.

In the end, remember this:  there is much more love than hate in the world.  The proof is that throughout time, good always wins out in the end, even if it takes decades or  even centuries.    Also, if there was no darkness in the world, it would be impossible for us to both create and appreciate the light.  Just make sure you notice that on balance, good far outweighs evil, and that there is evidence of that everywhere.

Love,
EL