Loving the World

How can we learn to love the world in a time where conflict, tragedy, and change are ever present? In the latest Tripod episode, “We Are Animals: Environment and Empathy,” with Jennifer Case, we discussed this question through the lens of Case’s experiences with pregnancy and motherhood, some of which posed challenges for her that any listener can relate to. 

Many of Tripod’s episodes discuss ways to reconnect and engage with the environment. One of the primary ways is to be physically in the world. Embracing nature by walking, exercising, and being out in one’s community are a great way to find reminders of all there is to love about the planet. Nature, even in an urban setting, is all around us. Just taking in the weather or the change in seasons signals that growth is always possible and new beginnings are being cultivated everywhere. 

Giving back and serving others are another great way to love the world. Although social media and online connections can help us find communities that would otherwise go undiscovered, nothing can replace the face-to-face connections we make with those around us. Volunteering, donating, and simply doing favors for those who need it benefits all who engage in it and can make the world a better place one act at a time. 

Last, but certainly not the last way to love the world, we can practice forgiveness and perspective. Having a faith or participating in organized religion are not necessities for offering forgiveness and gaining new perspectives. Reading stories, fictional or otherwise, helps us practice empathy for the characters we meet between the pages—which, in turn, translates to extending forgiveness to those close to us and even those who we may never meet. 

Writing also helps us gain perspective on experiences that may require further reflection. Engaging in the arts can be a powerful way to learn to love the world through a new lens.

All of these strategies are explored on the latest Tripod episode, with Jennifer Case, and from so many of the other guests who have participated on the podcast.

To learn more, check out the Tripod website and listen to Tripod anywhere you find podcasts. 

By Lily Brennan