Dmitry Shapiro wrote a blog post about cutting out News on Nov 2. I was inspired to design the above logo. Below are more of my thoughts.
It is a dangerous trap to think that the information we call “news” is what is important.
“News,” is generally a collection of sensationalized train-wrecks with the intention of getting you addicted to drama. The stories get you excited, agitated, and wanting more. How will this terrible story play out!? How dare they! Can you believe he said that!? How tragic! What LIES!!!!!
But the shame of it all is that at any given time, COUNTLESS amazing things are happening. People are falling in love, getting the their dream jobs, discovering their passion, launching business ideas, taking first steps, helping those in need, healing from wounds, and beginning life.
People sometimes say that to ignore “The News” is to avoid reality. But how is a plane crash 1000 miles away more “real” than a school play down the block? Reality is what we focus on. If you fill your mind with toxic thoughts, you experience a toxic world.
If you are lazy about the information you allow into your mind, you will be passively accepting the lowest common denominator perspective.
Some things I do:
I subscribe to YES! and Ode Magazine.
I frequently skim through the pages of “Pronoia.”
I attend and subscribe to weekly lectures by Jacob Glass.
I never watch network news (unless you count Comedy Central.)
And I try to be very conscious of the effect that information has on my state of mind. If it bothers me for the sake of being bothered, I find a way to filter it out.
On Nov. 2, take a 1 day break from traditional news and see how you feel. If you really miss the hoaxes, scandals, and terror, I promise they will be waiting for you on Nov. 3.
No News Nov 2 – spread the word with #NoNewsNov2
p.s. Do you have places you get positive news or that help remind you of how amazing the world is? Please share!!
p.p.s. Crap or Cone has more of my thoughts on this topic.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Agreed! I actually do not miss having TV reception for this reason. The internet of course is just as bad so there is where my battle begins to filter out the bad (or what others would settle for as “reality”).
PS: Love that warrior pic.
THE GUEST HOUSE by Rumi
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
Some momentary awareness comes
As an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
Who violently sweep your house
Empty of its furniture,
Still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
For some new delight.
My favourite place for optimism and awesome stuff is “Gives Me Hope” (described as “like ‘Fuck My Life’ but for optimists”). It never fails to make me happy.
http://www.givesmehope.com/top