No one can argue that a big fat spotlight has been put on many of our institutions and the people within them. Rather than getting lost in the idea that we have lost our minds what would happen if we saw these times as an opportunity to look honestly at ourselves individually?

We all know the dark can’t survive in the light. So perhaps it is time we as individuals look for the pockets of dark that still reside within each of us and begin to bring these into the light.

• If you are angry over the bullying that seems prevalent, be willing to look within and see where you too have bullied. Do you use self-righteousness or a sense of being justified as permission not to be kind to another?

• If you are shocked at the level of dishonesty that seems to be passing as truth, look within and own where you too are dishonest with not only others but with yourself as well. Do you hold integrity higher than winning or getting a big paycheck?

• If you feel unheard or disrespected look within and see the times you have not been willing to listen or respect others. Do you listen to the small voice that always moves towards love and unity or do you only listen to the screaming voice that says attack?

• If you feel that there is hate mongering going on in the world, own the times you too have felt hate toward another or even yourself. Do you meet hate with hate or with understanding and compassion?

It is only when we all own our part in the energies being mirrored for us at this time can we choose love over hate, and peace over war.

I am writing this not to preach for I struggle with all of these issues every day! I am writing this because I firmly believe in a loving universe and that there is always a “Highest Potential Outcome” during times that appear so chaotic. But it takes focus and determination to keep moving towards that potential.

It is the time that we must not only demand integrity from our leaders and institutions, but we must demand it from ourselves.

If we will do this and remove the dark pockets within ourselves that keep us from our highest potential, I have no doubt we will do the same for the world.

Until next time be the light the world needs and stay in love for all.

Joffre McClung is the author of two books, How Learning to Say Goodbye Taught Me How to Live ( Kirkus Indie Reviews “Heartfelt reflections on the lessons and strength to be gained from grief and loss….A thoughtful think piece.”) and The Heart of the Matter ( A  Workbook and Guide to Finding Your Way Back to Self-Love) due out in spring of  2017.