The Lighter Side of Transformation

The singer/songwriter Joan Baez said it best, “Action is the antidote for despair.” Worrying is not going to help you, or this situation. Taking actions will reduce your anxiety. It will help you sleep better. It will also put your congressional representatives on alert for their constituents’ concerns.

You are not alone. The anxiety and fear arising from the often impulsive, reckless current political choices coming out of Washington, DC are hurting everyone. Democrats, Republicans and Libertarians are struggling to cope with these radical changes.

In my work, reducing anxiety and increasing distress tolerance are part of the process. When it comes to political anxiety, I know that it can be healthy to have a bit of a rant, but then you need to switch into action mode.

There are many ways to do this, but my favorite method is to use the 5 Calls App. Whoever designed this App deserves a Nobel prize! It lists most of the current issues that are being addressed. It’s very easy to use. You don’t have to give them your email or cell phone, just the zip code where you vote is enough.

I’ve read the science on these calls (https://5calls.org/why-calling-works/ – Scroll down to the cited articles). Yes, attending Town Hall meetings and making phone calls are the MOST EFFECTIVE ways to communicate with your congress people. Phone calls are definitely better than emails and faxes, for sure.

The App gives you sample scripts to use. I often start with the 5 Calls’ script, and then riff from that.

In sum, each phone call feels like a psychospiritual colonic cleanse! Ahh, sweet relief. You don’t have to make 5 calls in a day, one or two will do. Don’t take my word for it. Just take an action and see what happens.

Here is a screenshot of the 5 Calls App.

For example, yesterday I learned that President Trump plans to spend $92 million dollars for a military parade to celebrate his birthday. DOGE is slashing important science research at the National Institutes of Health. DOGE is also dismembering Social Security and other questionable reductions of important government services. Meanwhile, Trump is going to give himself a LAVISH parade?

Nay, nay! I immediately called my congress people and told them to block this $92 million waste ASAP. I shared my thoughts, feelings, and angst. I lowered my blood pressure and reduced my cortisol level. I felt so good after I made the calls. I am part of the solution! Being furious will not change anything. Being all wound up is ineffective. Clutching my pearls while shaking with disgust is NOT going to reverse this administration’s wrecking ball activities.

Remember, “Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amidst the storm.”

May the 5 Calls App help you feel better, stronger, healthier and wiser.

Onward and Upward🌀
Lisa Wessan