Ruth King: Healing Racism from Within on The One You Feed
I work with the bad wolf, so to speak, in a way that is not making it wrong, because the minute I make it wrong, it has to act out more to get my attention.
What if healing racism starts from within? In this insightful episode of 'The One You Feed', host Eric Zimmer chats with Ruth King, an emotional wisdom author, coach, and consultant. Ruth is a guiding teacher at the Insight Meditation Community of Washington and a member of the teacher's council at Spirit Rock Meditation Center. She brings her extensive experience and deep understanding to the table, discussing her book, *Mindful of Race: Transforming Racism from the Inside Out*.
Ruth dives into the core of racism, describing it as a heart disease that needs healing. She emphasizes the importance of being curious about both our good and bad thoughts, suggesting that we approach our negative aspects with an open mind. She also highlights how mindfulness can help us understand the subtle projections our minds create, shaping our perceptions and interactions.
One of the key points Ruth makes is the difference in how white people and people of color experience the world. While white individuals often see the world through the lens of individual identity, people of color tend to view it through group identity. This distinction is crucial for understanding the complexities of racial dynamics. Ruth encourages listeners to integrate mindfulness into their daily lives to better understand their own experiences and recognize the projections others place on them.
By doing so, we can foster greater self-awareness and empathy, essential steps towards healing racism. This episode is a blend of wisdom, compassion, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to contribute to racial healing. Ruth's message is both hopeful and empowering, offering a path forward in addressing one of society's most pressing issues.