4.
Guardian
“You have to create space;you have to remove something;you have to break something down in your life,in order to bring in the new.”― Kathrin ZenkinaGuardians are brave and wise people who have skills and resources that they use to support initiatives that will make progress toward creating a healthier and fairer world. Guardians are insiders in the same way a family's dog is an insider in the family but still serves the guardian role to protect everyone. There are many guardians all over the world. Most of the time, we think of guardians as people like police and the military who serve to protect community safety and the status quo. They are trying to prevent disruption with their protective role, which is why we usually do not think of guardians as advocates of change. Most of the time, guardians are not revolutionaries, but the guardians we are talking about here are, in fact, revolutionaries who channel existing institutional resources to cultural change initiatives. It is a special role for those with substantial institutional skills who can advocate for and act as a mentor for emerging organizations focused on various aspects of cultural change. Some guardians, because they are well-resourced, are free to provide support to others with little risk to themselves. They can act as a bridge between their institution and the changing world that ensures success for young organizations. They do, however, have to be mindful of the diverse needs for support and training required to realize change. People in financial institutions are an obvious example where some individuals provide financing and mentoring services to changemakers. Some in government may serve a similar function. Guardians can be found in many other places, also.Guides may seem conventional, but they are the quiet changemakers and revolutionaries who have the ability to support change over the long term by providing much-needed stability to others. Guides are not always appreciated or trusted. They may experience resistance and even disrespect from both within and outside the institutions they serve. Taking care of emotional health is especially important for a guide. Healing practices and a joy practice will help you stay focused on your role and release some of the inevitable wounds along the way. Being visible to other changemakers will provide you with support while you are supporting others. At the Magic Of Joy, we help all heart-based people working toward a better world release outmoded ideas and perceptions and claim the optimism and joy they deserve. Check your inbox for more details and a few goodies!