Thriving in an Uncertain World: Wisdom Perspectives from Sage-ing® Leaders

Uncertainty surrounds us in today’s turbulent times—political strife, economic instability, climate crises, and social division. How do we stay grounded? How do we discern truth in an age of misinformation? And how can we make a difference without becoming overwhelmed?

Three of our esteemed sages, Carol Scott-Kassner, Katia Petersen, and Jerome Kerner, offer their insights on navigating this unsettled world with resilience, discernment, and purpose.

Strengthening Inner Resilience

For Carol Scott-Kassner, the key to thriving in uncertain times is cultivating stillness. “More than any other time in my life, I feel called to a place of stillness and noticing,” she shares. Meditation and time in nature reconnect her with something greater, helping her find peace in life’s impermanence and interconnection.

Katia Petersen emphasizes that inner strength is essential. “Prioritizing spiritual, mental, and emotional well-being is key,” she says. Mindfulness, deep breathing, and gratitude help shift focus from fear to appreciation. “A daily gratitude practice helps us see what remains good in the world rather than just what is broken.”

For Jerome Kerner, resilience also means embracing a broader perspective of time. “First, acknowledge that what is happening today is what John O’Donohue refers to as broken human time versus eternal time, which moves at a different rhythm,” he explains. “We need to balance our action with being in the eternal time, by beginning the day in gratitude for life and consciousness that goes beyond the moment.”

All three Sage-ing Leaders stress the power of community and connection. “Have a strong support system,” Katia advises. “Finding comfort within family, friendships, and trusted communities helps ward off isolation.” Engaging in meaningful conversations and seeking wisdom across generations fosters reassurance and collective strength.

Discerning Truth in an Age of Information Overload

With nonstop news and social media, distinguishing fact from misinformation is more challenging than ever. “The reality we perceive is shaped by the information we consume,” says Katia. “We must be intentional about how we stay informed.”

Carol limits exposure to violent news and toxic media. “I choose to avoid consuming news that encourages hatred or violence,” she explains, instead following trusted commentators who rely on reason and truth.

Jerome acknowledges the difficulty of filtering information. “The process of gathering trusted information is complicated by the desire to avoid all current news as well as the tendency to stay in our own silo of preferred news,” he observes. “Finding a trusted, objective news source is the challenge.”

Katia suggests fact-checking sources such as Snopes, FactCheck.org, and Politifact before reacting or sharing information. “Before believing a headline that sparks anger or fear, pause,” she advises. “Truth deserves patience.” Critical thinking is crucial: “Ask—who benefits from this narrative? What’s the motivation behind it?”

Making a Difference Without Becoming Overwhelmed

As we age, our approach to making a difference shifts. “The urgency of youth—the feeling that we must fix everything—softens,” says Katia. Instead of trying to solve all problems, we can focus on where our energy is best spent.

Carol takes action through advocacy. “I will join protests, contribute to causes, and contact legislators to encourage right action,” she states. But she also believes small acts matter. “If I choose to live in kindness and peace, it will help us all move through this time into ultimate good, caring, and peace.”

Jerome offers a long view, shaped by a century of experience. “I have seen cycles that seemed bleak and destructive followed by times of hope and positivity,” he reflects. But he also warns that each negative cycle comes with growing consequences: “Unfortunately, the negative impact on the planet as well as our democratic systems becomes more costly with each cycle.” Despite this, he urges a perspective of resilience and renewal. “Like our personal growth process, we need to be forgiving and move on.”

Katia agrees. “Instead of worrying about what we can’t do, focus on what we can,” she encourages. Open conversations, mentoring, and embodying compassion create meaningful ripples of change.

As Carol reminds us, none of us are alone. She recalls a Sufi teaching: “I’m only one person, what can I do? said 7 million people.” In remembering that, we find strength—not just in ourselves, but in collective wisdom and action.