An article by Angela Legh and Dr. Darren Starwynn
In times of global upheaval, when the world feels chaotic and divided, many people are left feeling emotionally overwhelmed, confused, or numb. Some have access to practices that help them stay centered, such as meditation, breathwork, or self-inquiry. Others, though, may not have such tools, and are simply doing the best they can to navigate life’s increasingly intensifying pressures.
This article is intended for those who feel disoriented or stuck, especially individuals who have not yet stepped onto a spiritual or personal growth path, but who find themselves questioning whether there is truth behind the many voices bombarding them. It can also serve those with a long history of spiritual practice who have hit a plateau, feeling they need to deepen their realization of who they really are.
It is no secret that modern media is a powerful force. Much of what people consume today is not designed to inform; but to inflame. Repetitive, fear-based narratives create an emotional fog that makes it difficult to access one’s own inner guidance. Like in a story by Kurt Vonnegut Jr., The Sirens of Titan, in which soldiers implanted with a loud, repeating chant couldn’t hear their own thoughts, they became slaves to the noise streamed into their heads. The truth is that today’s media climate often drowns out your voice of inner truth.
So how can someone begin to reclaim clarity, calm, and a deeper connection with themselves? The first step is to gently pause and ask honest questions. These questions are not meant to judge or criticize, but to open space for awareness and self-reflection.
Here are a few to consider:
- How do you feel after watching the news or scrolling through social media?
Do you feel more informed; or more anxious, angry, or disheartened? How does the feeling affect you and your family? - Are your emotional reactions serving you; or draining you?
Are you reacting, or responding? Is your response helping you grow, or is it causing harm to yourself or those around you? - Are the stories you consume stirring up fear and rage?
Or do the stories encourage compassion, insight, and personal responsibility? - Are you becoming more reactive; or more reflective?
Are your beliefs based on inner discernment, or on media repetition and societal pressure? Can you hear the musings of your heart, or is it drowned out by the noise? - Do you feel righteous and self-justified after hearing certain viewpoints?
Does this leave room for others’ perspectives; or does it divide you further from connection? - Are the emotions you’re feeling even yours?
For sensitive individuals, the collective emotional field can feel very personal. Ask: Is this feeling mine? Do I need to carry this right now?
These questions offer a pathway toward greater self-awareness. They are not about reaching quick answers, this is about deeper inquiry. The moment a person begins to explore their internal responses is the moment personal growth begins.
This process also includes recognizing the ways we give away our power. In challenging times, many people unconsciously fall into what’s known as the Victim Triangle; a cycle of roles that includes the victim, the rescuer, and the persecutor.
When someone sees themselves as the victim, they may believe someone else must fix the problem. This belief hands their power over to others, making change feel out of reach. In the role of the rescuer, they may try to solve other people’s issues; often with good intentions; but in doing so, they may unintentionally block the other person’s opportunity to grow. And when stepping into the persecutor role, they may react with blame, criticism, or control; usually as a way to avoid their own discomfort, fear, or unresolved pain.
Most people shift between these roles without realizing it. But by becoming aware of the triangle, it becomes possible to step out of reaction and into responsibility by asking instead, What part of this experience is mine to own, shift, or heal?
Facing the inner shadow is one of the most courageous acts a human being can undertake. It means gently turning toward the parts of oneself that are uncomfortable; those wrapped in guilt, shame, or old wounds; with a willingness to understand, accept, and bring compassion to what has long been hidden.
It means moving from blame to responsibility. From division to connection. From reaction to response. From absence to presence.
True empowerment begins when individuals stop outsourcing truth to external voices and begin listening inward. Inner truth does not scream. It whispers. And it can only be heard when space is made through stillness, curiosity, and compassion.
Importantly, healing is not a one-time event; it is a layered, ongoing journey. Each time a person turns inward with honesty and love, another layer is released. Grace comes when one accepts that growth is not about perfection, but about practice.
The next time someone triggers you emotionally, pause and recognize the gift that moment brings; a precious chance to heal and grow. Rather than reacting with anger, resistance, or justification, pause. Breathe. Gently turn inward and focus on your heart. This space gives you the opportunity to respond rather than react. In that choice alone, you create space for your own freedom and take a beautiful step forward on your path.
There are tools available for those who seek support, whether through books, meditative practices, coaching, healing, or mentorship. But the most important step is the willingness to pause, to question, and to remember that inner peace is possible, even in the midst of chaos.
Each moment offers a choice: Where will attention go? Toward fear, or toward love? Toward reaction, or toward reflection?
The world does not need more division. It needs more discernment. More grounded hearts. More people willing to own their experience and walk forward with compassion; for themselves, and for others.
And it begins, simply, with the willingness and the courage to ask new questions.
Dr. Darren Starwynn, is an author, speaker and “quantum catalyst” healer with over 30 years in acupuncture, vibrational medicine and energy healing.
Find Dr. Darren Starwynn at https://drstarwynn.com
Find Angela Legh at https://angelalegh.com
Angela Legh, International Bestselling Author, Motivational Speaker, and Television Show Producer, passionately promotes emotional intelligence through her book series The Bella Santini Chronicles and her TV show Unfiltered Parenting
