Chapter 1: The Impact of Media on Our Inner Peace

Two years ago, I made the decision to stop watching cable news. This marked the beginning of a journey toward reducing the constant barrage of noise and negativity in our lives. I owe this revelation to my wife, who was the first to highlight the stressful nature of cable news, characterized by its dramatic music, flashy visuals, and anxious hosts. “It’s overwhelming,” she pointed out. “Why do we subject ourselves to it?”

The commentators often speak over one another, rarely pausing to listen or understand differing perspectives. Their focus is solely on winning arguments rather than fostering understanding. Objectivity has become a relic of the past. Regardless of your political beliefs, there is a channel ready to reinforce your biases, often inciting fear, anger, and division.

The commercials are equally invasive, with their jarring sounds and incessant repetition. It's no surprise that many people are abandoning cable in favor of streaming services or alternative forms of entertainment. You often don’t realize the extent of the problem until you try a different approach.

Next time you find yourself watching cable news, consider turning it off. Play some soothing music instead, engage in a meaningful conversation with your partner, or delve into a good book. You’ll likely notice the shift in ambiance and how it positively affects your inner state.

Your Connection to the Eternal

I cherish a small yet profound book by the late theologian Howard Thurman, titled “Meditations of the Heart.” The back cover describes him as one of the great preachers of the twentieth century and a spiritual guide to influential figures like Martin Luther King, Jr. His insights into faith and community are especially relevant in today’s tumultuous climate.

Thurman articulates a powerful concept in the opening of his work, referring to each individual’s “inward sea.” He describes an island within this sea, home to an altar, guarded by an “angel with the flaming sword.” This angel permits only those elements that bear the mark of your inner authority to reach the altar. Essentially, this is your vital connection to the Eternal.

This metaphor emphasizes the sanctity of your inner being—your soul. Only you can determine your identity and what influences it. Unfortunately, the sanctity of your inner altar faces continuous threats, whether from biased news anchors, toxic relationships, or self-serving colleagues. The challenge lies in how to defend your altar and discern what deserves your consent.

Step 1: Pursue Lifelong Learning

The first step in safeguarding your inner sanctuary is education. The more you learn about people, history, and the world, the more adept you will become at making wise decisions for your altar. Education can come in many forms: traditional schooling, university studies, self-directed reading, or travel.

It’s essential to remain aware of the biases that educators may have. Always seek to understand opposing viewpoints to uncover the truth. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”

Step 2: Trust Your Conscience

The second step is to cultivate your conscience. With each choice you make, reflect on how it resonates with you internally. If something feels off, reconsider your decision. Explore why it feels wrong and whether you are acting in your own interest or someone else’s. If it’s the latter, assess whether it’s a sacrifice worth making or a compromise of your integrity.

Step 3: Understand Your Purpose

The third step is recognizing your purpose. It often takes time to fully understand your purpose in life, which is why younger individuals may make more mistakes. During this period, your inner altar can become vulnerable.

Friedrich Nietzsche once stated, “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.” Therefore, it is crucial to engage in self-discovery, identifying your unique talents and areas for improvement. Nurturing your strengths will lead you toward your purpose, while managing your weaknesses will keep you focused on that path.

Developing education, conscience, and purpose takes time, but they are vital for maintaining the integrity of your consent. Without them, your protective angel struggles to guard your altar.

Hope as a Guiding Force

By distancing myself from cable news, I have actively worked to fortify my inner sanctuary against unworthy influences. My commitment to reading, healthy eating, regular exercise, and abstaining from alcohol all reflect my dedication to nurturing my inner self.

While I am not infallible and do occasionally stumble, focusing on education, conscience, and purpose keeps me aligned with my goals. My fluid area of consent remains sharp because I am clear about what I want from life.

The concept of the “Eternal” that Howard Thurman refers to will vary for each individual. As Herman Melville articulated, “Hope is the struggle of the soul, breaking loose from what is perishable, and attesting her eternity.” For some, the Eternal may represent a divine presence; for others, it could signify a cosmic purpose that resonates deeply within.

Regardless, continue to invest in your education, heed your conscience, and cultivate your inherent talents. By doing so, you will fortify the island altar of your inward sea, allowing your angel with the flaming sword to protect what is most meaningful to you.

Before You Depart

I’m John P. Weiss, author of “An Artful Life: Inspirational Stories and Essays for the Artist in Everyone,” and soon to release “What Life Should Be About: Elegant Essays on the Things That Matter.” For my latest essays, cartoons, and classic black-and-white photos, sign up for The Saturday Letters here.