In this episode, Dr. Tom Rundel explores the themes of Advent, focusing on peace as a central concept. He reflects on personal experiences of chaos and stress, particularly during a planned power outage, and contrasts these with moments of genuine peace found in community service. The discussion delves into the nature of peace, emphasizing that it is not merely the absence of chaos but a powerful force that can disrupt unjust systems. The episode concludes with a reflection on expectations and how they can blind us to the peace that exists in our lives.

takeaways

• Advent is a time for reflection on hope, joy, and peace.
• Peace is not just tranquility; it is a deeper state of being.
• Experiencing chaos can lead to a greater understanding of peace.
• Expectations can blind us to the peace present in our lives.
• True peace can disrupt unjust systems and promote liberation.
• Peace exists in every moment, regardless of circumstances.
• Breath meditation can help tap into inner peace.
• Community service can be a source of genuine peace.
• Peace is a generous contribution to the good of all.
• The world is not saved through force but by a change of consciousness.

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He contrasts joy with happiness, emphasizing that joy is a deeper, more resilient state that can coexist with sorrow and is not dependent on circumstances. The discussion also delves into the historical context of apartheid in South Africa and how Tutu's joyful spirit served as a powerful form of resistance against oppression. The conversation concludes with an invitation to meditate on joy and its significance in our lives.

takeaways

• Advent is a preparation for the arrival of God into our lives.
• Joy is not an emotion but a resilient state of being.
• Happiness can be tied to brain chemicals like dopamine, but joy transcends that.
• Desmond Tutu exemplified joy in the face of oppression.
• Joy can coexist with sorrow and is rooted in reality.
• Repentance is about awakening to one's true self.
• Joy is a revolutionary force that cannot be governed.
• The fire of God is illuminating and cleansing, not punitive.
• Joy invites us to new beginnings and deeper connections.
• Meditating on joy can help us connect with our true selves.

Sponsors
Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

Connect
Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

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In this episode, Tom Rundel explores the concept of hope versus toxic positivity, particularly within the context of Advent and the Christian faith. He discusses how hope is often misunderstood as mere optimism or positivity, and instead argues that true hope involves acknowledging reality and potential, even in the face of despair. Rundel shares personal insights and experiences, emphasizing the importance of co-authoring a better future with God, rather than relying on clichéd narratives.

Takeaways

• The majority of our life is lived in liminal space.
• Hope is not a denial of reality but an awareness of it.
• Toxic positivity replaces reality with comforting narratives.
• True hope involves acknowledging both reality and potential.
• Bad theology insulates us from reality.
• Hope is born when the human spirit confronts despair.
• We are participants in God's unfolding future.
• Hope requires co-authoring a better future with God.
• Clichés are not true theology but can be comforting.
• Hope travels through despair to reach the other side.

Sponsors
Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

Connect
Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving

Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow

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