Weekly Meditation – November 5, 2025

by Ellen Caringer

Those of us who followed the WWII generation are likely to remember our history lessons, and those who do, fully recognize we, as a country, are lurching rapidly toward fascism. The sign above encapsulates the reason our work is so crucial.  In the past year, I have often heard the phrase “If you ever wonder what you would’ve done had you lived in the days leading up to Nazi Germany, you are doing it now.” This work may feel very hard and overwhelming, but in the midst of the challenges we face, I have found renewed strength by reflecting on the incredible work each of you do, and the bonds we have established in working together. Courage is contagious and as we each stand up to insist that the current situation is unacceptable, we give strength to each other.  

As we enter this season of thanksgiving, we may find it a little more challenging to be thankful, but exercising gratitude is quite essential to our spiritual and mental health. As a mental health provider, I’ve had more than the usual amount of discussions this year on finding ways to cope in the midst of the authoritarian breakthrough in our country.  Those who lived through those times in World War II tell us they were able to maintain their equilibrium by focusing on the simple joys in their lives. In the 1940’s, as now, it is essential for our health that we take time to enjoy the little things, be it the wonder of the holidays, or the love of family and friends. It is essential that we let NO ONE rob us of our blessings and joys. Let us make every effort to go the extra mile in creating joy in our lives and the lives of others.  Create magical moments for ourselves, our friends and our family, particularly in this season of the year. It is those moments that give us the fuel we need to do the work we must continue to do.  

We also know that simply worrying, without taking action, enhances fear, depression and isolation. People fare far better when they join others in taking actions that can make a difference. Whether it be gathering up food to give to our immigrant brothers and sisters, writing postcards, or going to a protest or rally.  

We also have to find that balance to stay healthy and at our best. I often recommend what I  call the “zoom in, zoom out” method of self-care.  “Zoom out” and look at the bigger picture, decide what steps you can take to contribute to saving our country and our democracy, take actions that feel right for you (write postcards, go to a protest, volunteer with an Indivisible group) then zoom back into your daily life. As we close out the last two months of this year, I urge you to practice being in the moment, whether providing a service to others or creating joyous moments with family. Treasure each of those life experiences.

In this holiday season, our Hui Aloha team will be providing a weekly devotion or video to speak to surviving and thriving in this holiday season. Today is our first.  Each Monday, during the holiday season, our team members and Hui Aloha members will be sharing messages of love, hope and peace to help us as we navigate this holiday season.   

Sending much aloha to all of you!

Ellen