A few days ago, I received an e-mail from a friend asking if I thought it would be a good idea for her to send out a broadcast message asking everyone to “hold intention” for the upcoming election. Specifically, this means holding the intention that we elect a president whose direction for the country and whose impact on the planet most closely aligns with the highest and greatest good of all.
In simpler terms, we want to focus our thoughts on getting the best person into the White House — the best person being the one who is going to do the best job, by the yardstick of what’s in the best interests of everyone and everything on the planet (animal, vegetable, and mineral included).
This has nothing to do with campaigning, political affiliation, or religious codes. It has everything to do with actively working toward the best possible world for everyone to live in. And it’s quite simple.
You can imagine. On your daily commute, while you’re cooking dinner, when you’re walking the dogs, when you’re vacuuming or on the toilet…. whenever you can, imagine the grandest version and highest ideal of the best possible world: where life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are freely accorded to every living being, everywhere, all the time; where people treat each other, themselves, and the world around them with sacred respect; and where the world’s leaders actively support the continuation of such peaceful and holistic prosperity.
You can “behave as if.” Treat everyone you encounter during the day as if you’re all on the same team, holding the intention to create a better world. Because, essentially, you are. Behave as if you are already living in that best possible world you have imagined. Be the best person you can possibly be, just for today.
You can pray. “Thy will be done” is a great phrase to use, as the whole idea is to get personal expectations and attachment to outcomes out of the way. Assume that the Universe knows how to fill this bill better than you do. Still send your energy and prayers out there, but let the “greater good” figure out what it’s supposed to look like.
You can light a candle. Express in words or in thoughts your “intention to hold intention,” and then spend a few moments in quiet meditation. (This one is my favorite, by the way.)
Most importantly, of course, you can vote. Vote your conscience. Vote with both your heart and mind, working in concert. Vote with your children’s and grandchildren’s best interests at heart. Consider the world seven generations from now and what contribution we today can make toward that world, and cast your ballot accordingly.
Make your intention count.
I hope my friend chooses to send out that e-mail after all.