Our brains are wired to pay attention to what threatens us, which is usually a good thing. It helps us stay alert when we’re on a ladder, crossing the street, or facing a danger to our families.
Most of the time, this instinct is beneficial.
However, we’re constantly bombarded with negative news from political leaders, news sources, and social media. We hear negative news about other groups and hesitate to reach out to one another, unsure if it’s safe. This contributes to our individual loneliness and group isolation.
This fear and negativity haunts our days and nights.
In the 1960s, PTU co-founder Rabbi Levine noticed something similar. He and William Warren of KOMO TV pioneered a TV show called “Challenge.” They brought people of different faiths together to talk about the issues of the day as equals.
Today, Jeff Renner produces “Challenge 2.0.” He invites people of diverse cultures, traditions, and perspectives to address today’s key issues. While the show covers many difficult topics, seeing people from diverse backgrounds talk respectfully with each other is a healing salve in this age of toxic negativity.
The show airs on MeTV on Sunday mornings at 7:30 AM.
You can watch all the episodes here: Challenge 2.0 Playlist.
As you watch, I think you’ll find an antidote to the fear and negativity that haunts us these days. Share it with your friends and family, so they too might find some relief from the toxic negativity and breathe more easily.