As America prepares for the 2019 State of the Union address, noted Jungian psychologist, professor and author Dr. Jerry Ruhl will speak in Sarasota on Friday, January 18, on how people can transform their consciousness and humanity toward one another in a chaotic world. Egocentrism, political and social divides, tensions and anxieties are at their highest levels in decades. In his talk entitled “Living in the Fire—The Wisdom of Uncertainty,” Ruhl will discuss the paralysis that accompanies polarization around issues, and will share his ideas on how individuals can become comfortable with uncertainty and embrace opposing ideas. His talk will include strategies on how Americans can rise above “either/or” one-sided monologue to more inclusive “both/and” dialogue. Presented by the C. G. Jung Society of Sarasota, Jan. 18, the lecture takes place from 7-9 p.m., at the Carlisle Inn, 3727 Bahia Vista Street in Sarasota. Tickets are $25 members/$35 nonmembers and may be purchased at http://www.cgjungsarasota.com or at the door.
“Individually and culturally we have split issues and people into ‘good’ and ‘bad’ categories and we demonize the ‘other,'” Ruhl states. “People are clinging to and defending their individual beliefs about what is ‘right’ and ‘true’ for themselves, as opposed to being tolerant and open to dialogue that would reveal what may be true and better for the plurality. Such rigidity leads to inflation of the ego, arrogance and narcissism. We need to understand that opposing qualities and perspectives are actually essential elements to the existence of our democracy and our culture.”
Saturday, January 19, Ruhl will also present a workshop further exploring psychological patterns and approaches to help individual face catastrophes that often are beyond our coping skills. Experiences we cannot readily fix or control challenge us in fundamental ways, indelibly changing our lives—disrupting identity, career, relationships, meaning, hope for the future, our highest god image, and our personal narratives. “Managing and Making Sense of Life-Changing Illness, Accidents, and Tragedies,” runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Carlisle Inn, and will introduce practical exercises such as “Thought Stopping” – creating a quiet, still observation deck to watch thoughts; and “Mentalizing” – a process designed to foster meaningful dialogue as opposed to a single-sided mental monologue.
Continuing Education credits are available for both events at nominal additional cost. Package tickets for both lecture and workshop are also available. Learn more, register, and buy online at cgjungsarasota.com, or call 941.952.8188.