Friends, my heart is heavy for our world and it pains me that my first blog post in nearly a year is occurring during such a challenging time. But, I’m not writing to dwell on the darkness – I’m grateful to have the opportunity to reflect on the resulting light.
Life has a way of forcing us to slow down. Sometimes, it’s our bodies shutting down on us when we don’t listen and keep pushing past the point of burnout. Or, it could be that toxic relationship we think will improve that finally blows up in our face. In the case of COVID-19, I truly hope everyone has slowed down and is following the CDC’s guidelines for social distancing. No play dates. No creating your own speakeasy in light of the bars being closed. No huge family cookouts in the parks. In case I’m being too coy, seriously, stay the fuck home.
I know it’s not easy. I am an extreme extrovert and already hate not seeing friends. It’s been a week and I miss going to my yoga studio. And this is only speaking to “free” time. We are in a horrible, scary place when it comes to our employment and financial future.
So, what can we do? We can look for the sparks in the darkness. We can take the opportunity to reconnect with our humanity and help others. To consider others in every action. Look out for each other by not hoarding. Ask other people how they’re doing – even strangers! While we are all desperate for human connection, let’s actually TALK to each other. And not just on social media. We are fortunate to have technology advanced enough that many of us can choose to still see each other whenever we want on a video call. I hope we’ll take the time to get to know our friends and loved ones even better, and maybe even make some new acquaintances.
Is your life typically too busy to be at home often enough for a hobby? Here’s your chance. The internet has videos on how to do pretty much anything…for free! Take advantage of free workout videos. Start learning a new language. Read books. Write. Sing. Dance while no one’s watching – literally, or maybe become TikTok famous, who knows. Learn to cook something new. Play a board game. Watch that show on Netflix everyone is always talking about.
Be kind to yourself. It’s okay to feel scared and sad. I’ve had friends tell me they feel guilty for feeling anxious because other people “have it worse.” Friends, you are not other people. You are you, and your feelings are valid. Let it fuel your compassion for others while allowing yourself to feel and to cry and to scream and whatever else helps you get through.
As we’re bluntly reminded of life’s brevity and uncertainty, let this time be a lasting reminder not to wait on living. When all of this is over, perhaps more of us will be inspired to take the risks that could help realize lifelong dreams. And even now, as we reconnect with others, maybe love will be found in unexpected places.
Let’s not take for granted that on a “normal” day, we’ll have the chance to hug others again. To squeeze a hand. To dance a little too closely. To revel in a crowd while music pulses through us until our chests hurt.
As for now, where can you find the light and a silver lining? I think it’s important to ask that every day. For me, I can’t help but appreciate the irony of my own journey. I went through some very dark days feeling overwhelmed and burned out by the extreme amount of crisis work I did the past three years, which is part of why I ultimately decided to change jobs for my mental and physical health. Less than two months into my new job, I now find myself incredibly grateful for that experience. Those challenges and trials by fire gave me the tools to be a calm resource for coworkers and clients – and to do so with certainty and confidence. And oh my gosh am I ever so grateful to have a job right now, period.
I also have more time to sing and write, which is wonderful. I recognize that this is only the beginning of dark days that we may be unable to even imagine at this point, but I hope you’ll take time each day to grab onto ONE bright moment. Let’s rely on each other. We are all in this together and you are not alone. Feel free to share those moments with me…I’d love to share in your joys.
Stay strong in love and light.
BMore Bold 