I worked in television news for more than 20 years. In the ‘70s, the local news touched people’s lives. Road construction, a new library, upcoming festivals… In the ‘80s, TV news changed because ratings and money, rather than public service, came into fashion. “If it bleeds, it leads” became prominent. That meant accidents, conflicts, and shootings now led the news because TV consultants suggested more people would watch the station with the most dramatic stories.

The consultants were right. Drama and conflict won out. It seems humans tend toward the negative as an evolutionary strategy to keep ourselves safe. If we’re aware of dangers, we can respond and plan.

With the current tsunami of conflict news from every corner of our country and the world, our systems can be overloaded and overwhelmed.

NVC is about being aware of what we’re observing (and what we’re telling ourselves about that) and then connecting with the feelings and needs that arise. Fear, helplessness, and anxiety are pervasive.

If we’re to create balance and agency in our lives, we need to actively change our personal news channel to one broadcasting the beauty, compassion, wonder, connection, joy, and community that not only exists around the world but closer to home—even in our immediate surroundings.

This is not a new thought. But it is a reminder.

What’s wonderful in your world, in your home, on your street, in your community? What’s going right? Who is kind? Where’s the joy? Carefully observe these things, and then let your body take them in. Feel the feelings, experience the needs that are met, and feed your spirit by living in those moments with intention.

Share these feelings and needs with those around you. Bring appreciation and celebration into your world.

I invite you to tune into the beauty regularly, and bring your attention and intention back to life!

~ Bryn