An accurate diagnosis, unfortunately, of our current descent into collective psychosis, as our global horizon darkens and the common bonds of civility and democracy erode, giving way to mindless rage, hatred, and denial. The very fact that a deranged, vindictive psychopath under 91 felony indictments is still likely to be nominated by a major political party (now warped into a truthless fascist cult of personality) and could be elected President again…is terrifying.

Our only remaining option, in my view is to grow gardens, grow community, and grow awareness, by learning, teaching, healing, and creating. And we can set an asymptotic goal for ourselves based on the ancient advice of Lao Tzu: “Take care of everyone and abandon no one; take care of everything and abandon nothing.” And when overwhelmed by grief and distress, remember also his advice to “empty yourself of everything” by breathing, observing, and letting go, embracing impermanence, and doing what we know is right—for ourselves, our communities, and our living planet—starting right now.