World peace is under threat. Let us work towards making the world more peaceful.
Toastmasters · Carmel Valley · 92130 | By HiFi Speakers', Sushil Rungta
As the year draws to a close, it feels more like the culmination of an era, not a year. While I am usually optimistic, it is also difficult to ignore the dark clouds accumulating on the horizon, almost shrouding the world. We seem to be entering a phase, defined in alchemical terms as nigredo – a period of decay and dissolution that leads to resurgence.
The past several decades, despite occasional setbacks, have undeniably been transformative. Since the late 15th century, humanity has transitioned from the Middle Ages into modernity. The Renaissance, driven by the brilliance of scholars and visionaries, ignited advancements in art, architecture, music, literature, philosophy, science, and politics. This cultural flourishing enriched lives and reshaped civilizations throughout the world.
Yet, in recent years, the world seems entangled in confusion and suffering, besieged by a spate of crises converging simultaneously – war, widening socioeconomic inequalities, and growing homelessness, to name a few. The mental health epidemic is especially concerning, now affecting not just the elderly but also young adults reporting they feel lonely and unconnected. We have come to adore autocrats, dictators, tyrants, and sycophants. Morality is on a rapid decline, and under the guise of tolerance or helplessness, we are accepting societal decay as inevitable.
Indifference and complacency have never solved any challenge. Nor has criticism, passive acceptance, or retreat. Remedying the ailments afflicting our society can only be possible if we unite and take deliberate, meaningful action. Each of us must reflect: how can we contribute to positive change? From this introspection, we can collectively forge solutions. We must also vehemently oppose hatred, violence, and injustice in any form.
Before we can expect love, empathy, and compassion from others, we must first embody them ourselves. Let our guiding resolution for the coming year be to embody the Buddhist principle of muditā – the joy found in the happiness and success of others. Muditā nurtures both selflessness and mutual growth and is symbiotic - we thrive when others thrive. This spirit of shared joy can soften cruelty, counter selfishness, and diminish brutality.
Let us commit to creating a safer, more connected, and compassionate world. A peaceful world is not only happier but infinitely better than one in conflict. In this season of reflection and gratitude, hope and renewal, let us work together toward peace and understanding. As F. Scott Fitzgerald reminds us, “One can see that things are hopeless and yet be determined to make them otherwise.” Now is the time to choose determination.
In alchemy, the nigredo phase is the initial step in the creation of “the philosopher's stone.” Alchemists believed that the philosopher’s stone not only had the ability to transform base metals into precious metals such as gold and silver, but could also cure illnesses, prolong life, and bring about spiritual revitalization. I have no doubts that the coming dark times will be followed by a period of renewal, revival, and rejuvenation which will help us scale new heights.

YOU CAN NEVER HAVE TOO MUCH CONFIDENCE
You Are Invited To Audit A HiFi Speakers Toastmasters Meeting
If you live in San Diego, I would love to meet you at one of HiFi’s weekly meetings in Carmel Valley (92130). Meetings are open to all, and free to attend, with or without advance notice. Bring a friend!
Location: 12790 El Camino Real, 1st Floor, San Diego, 92130
Plenty of free parking.
Meeting Time: Every Thursday, 12:00-1:00
If this is your lunch hour, bring a sandwich. Please time your bites carefully, so when the laughs hit you do not pass Jersey Mike through your nose.
You have been warned.
~Mark Whitney, President, HiFi Speakers