A politics of love with Marianne Williamson
A column like this devoted to the mind, body, and spirit connection would be remiss if during the political season there was no mention of a presidential candidate like Marianne Williamson. She is a longtime guru in the metaphysical arena, writing her bestseller “A Return to Love” almost three decades ago. She’s not only a master at communicating about spiritual and transpersonal topics but she is also adept at matters concerning American history and democracy.
Born in 1952, and coming of age in the social activist climate of the 1960s, Williamson eventually grew into a popular spiritual speaker. She has been a champion for people with AIDS as well as other marginalized populations. She founded Project Angel Food, a meals-on-wheels program that serves homebound people with AIDS and other illnesses. She also co-founded the Peace Alliance. She has published 12 books, seven of which were bestsellers. Her newest book is called “A Politics of Love.” She says, “Spiritual audiences haven’t always been happy with my political activism, and political audiences haven’t always been happy with my spiritual convictions, but the combination of the two is who I am.”
Her assertion that we must “water the roots of our democracy” stems from her concern about today’s political climate, economic disparity, and environmental deterioration. She is a believer in looking back at our history to better understand our current situation. She digs deep, pulling ugly roots up with a firm hand, then speaks from the heart regarding solutions that would benefit every citizen.
Politics should not be a pursuit disconnected from the deeper meaning of life; it should be, as everything should be, an expression of our higher selves. –Marianne Williamson
She divides her almost daily public talks between discoursing on her political platform and delivering uplifting spiritual messages, serving to inspire, motivate, and heal. She weaves God into her oration, although not in a religious way. She speaks about the soul and the divine unity of humanity. She says that we are the “faucets” but not the water. God, of course, is the “water,” and we are the conduits for divinity to work through us. Life purpose is ultimately about being of service to God.
Williamson uses words in an eloquent manner while making us think about individual words as well, for example, how the word “communicate” means to “commune” with others. She asks us to reflect on our own communications: Are we creating a climate of “communion” when we communicate?
Williamson’s stance on controversial issues are decidedly on the left, but her desire for a harmonious society encircles all. Her odds in the race are a long shot; she is the dark horse bringing light to the battle. Her inclusion in the June 26–27 Democratic debates is a victory for her and is sure to enlighten the stage. Whether she wins or not, one can’t help but admire her mental acuity, emotional intelligence, and heart-centered approach to politics and life.
