Author Dr Ken Jennings
Metaphorically, I feel that we are in a global spiritual winter at the moment. It is a difficult period for all of us. This feeling is exacerbated by the way some political leaders conduct themselves. Ethics has given way to lies, corruption and manipulation. In the process, trust no longer exists and hope fades quickly as the harshness of the winter reality hits everyone. Darkness descends, and the possibility of sustainable growth wanes as the system struggles to sustain the values of honesty, courage and compassion.
Growth is not possible during a severe winter. The predominant concern for all living things during this period is one of survival.
I remember taking photographs of a snow, wintery landscape. In late afternoon, I walked passed a small field of dead sunflowers as the sun was trying to break through the dense cloud cover. As the rays gained strength and penetrated the cover ever so slightly, I felt light and joyful.
As I looked at the sunflowers, I knew that each one of them contained the seeds of new life. The potential energy of growth existed in the seeds that lay dormant during winter. Nature is self-generating and in times of winter, it is not necessary to lose hope in a future that is still to unfold.
As the sun broke through, I was reminded of how light changes one's perspective. During cold wintery days, everyone hankers after light. Feeling the warmth of the sun, just for a couple of minutes, helps to lift the spirit.
When reflections in the water are added to light, the snowscape is enhanced dramatically.
Shine your light.
Walking in the wintery landscape in Germany on that day, helped remind me of the power of light and reflection when interacting with others and dealing with challenging situations. Shining one's light in wintery conditions lifts spirits. Being emotionally light, honest, compassionate and courageous in one's relationships brings warmth and hope to others.
Dr Ken Jennings is an internationally renowned psychologist, executive coach and author with over 35 years experience. With a specialism in performance psychology, he has worked with elite sporting teams and extraordinary individuals globally. A systems orientated process thinker, he focuses on creating possibilities for those he consults with. His work draws on the philosophy of ecologic, in that ideas and actions are interconnected holistically. He believes that human transformation occurs when the power of energy and the complexity of information integrates in a meaningful, focused way.
Ken is a passionate photographer and a lover of things wild. He loves spending time in South Africa's Kruger National Park and the forests of southern Germany. Originally from South Africa, he now lives in Germany. He consults to clients globally. Connect with Ken on +49 1578 150 6789 or email. See his work at http://zanendaba.com https://www.instagram.com/drkenjen/