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Editor’s Rant
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We all know by now that the pandemic is the gift that keeps giving, as we all learn to live with a ‘new normal’.
It has been a tough couple of years for us all, but as FUSE enters our 13th lucky year as Canberra’s LGBTIQ magazine, it’s great to be back!
Over the past few years with COVID, environmental disasters, war and various egomaniacs, life can feel out of control and not as cosy as it once did. It is more important than ever that we do more than post social media memes and actually really care for one another and be the best humans we can be.
The hard truth is we may be headed for even more challenging times, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still thrive and find happiness.
Although it sucks, there is a great opportunity for human growth in these times of difficulty. It seems that everything happening right now points to a single and most important message: you (we) are not in control!
We use control as a tool against fear, but for centuries the Buddhists have been telling us that our obsession with it brings only suffering and trouble.
The good news for us all is that all though we actually have no control over other people or what happens around us, we can control how we react. I think if we can understand and act on this, it can make for a better and happier world.
Adverse negative reactions based on fear and a perceived loss of control are responsible for most of humanity’s suffering — even our environmental and virus woes can be linked back to this. Our troubles may seem insurmountable at times, but I believe we can make huge differences to our happiness and the world around us by learning to let go of things we cannot control and being mindful of our reactions to fear.
The single most significant decision I make daily is how I’ll react to something or someone. It’s a powerful tool for change. Emotions can be tricky to hold, and although it’s not something I’ve mastered (that would make me Buddha, ha!), when I do practice this I see significant improvements in my happiness and those around me.
So as I digest the news, see people acting crazy or have my fragile ego attacked by others, I remind myself: I can only control how I react. I am not bound by what happens around me. Nothing lasts; change is inevitable.
When we let go of control and accept life as it is, it is possible to liberate ourselves from negative emotions and actions, and that can change the world.
As we enter spring, I hope you enjoy this issue of FUSE Magazine made by our talented, dedicated team of writers, storytellers, photographers and creators as we celebrate some awesome humans in our community.
With hope in my heart, Alexander Thatcher
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The LGBTIQ DIRECTORY has been created in response to the identification that LGBTIQ people in Canberra and surrounding regions need a central place to find support, community and business pathways. It is our aim to encourage and promote rich and fulfilling lives in our community through this resource.
