Episode 72 - I Have No Response to That

Inspired by the fable-like film, Joe Versus the Volcano, we engage in dialogue on how and when to apply, "I have no response to that" in our lives. A regular spiritual practice will hone our Divine gift of Discernment so when a situation arises, we will know when a response is a good use of our time and energy and will add to the conversation. Here we share our life successes and failed attempts at choosing to not respond.

NOTES:

Some spiritual themes from the movie:

Selling your soul/fear of living

Living in a dream state

Domestication of the planet

Faith

Self-awareness/living in amazement

The meme: I have no response to that

Some of the ways/times to have no response to that are:

When you are triggered and your impulse is to defend, attack, rationalize, opinionate, etc.

When your discern that you won't really be adding anything to the conversation; it's fine as it is

When responding right now would not yield an empowering result

To avoid getting sucked into a line of questioning

It is definitely a practice! Having a regular spiritual practice will support your mastery of Discernment.

Jesus was a master at this!

Dialogue Questions:

Share your successes and frustrations with applying (or not applying) "I have no response to that" in your life this past week. What happened?

Did you find a little more space between your impulse to respond and your response? What happened?

What else does this mean for you?

[If there is time] If you watched the movie, what else inspired you about it? How do you apply your inspiration to your spiritual life?

Affirmation

I am not my thoughts, opinions and judgments. The world doesn’t always need to hear what is on my mind. Sometimes I may be guided to speak. Other times it may be best for everyone if I say nothing. I usethe Divine gift of Discernment in me and listen for the right and perfect response. I pause and explore the space in between my impulse and better judgment. I find Peace in the quiet.