These unusual times are similar to large snowstorms we experience some winters. Life comes to a halt and requires us to slow down, settle in and find beauty and solace in the nature surrounding us. An opportunity to settle into a deeper, quieter place within ourselves.
I have heard from others some frantic concerns about being sequestered. It does take constant remembering and evaluation what is appropriate in this new situation and what is putting ourselves and others at risk as we go about our daily lives. But it is temporary.
Much of the issue is the unknown. There seems to be a hubris around not appearing to overreact. What does an overreaction mean? That we appear foolish? To better travel this new territory requires something different from us: humility. Being humble in not knowing, which can serve us greatly in our larger lives. Approaching life with beginner’s mind brings out the one who is exploring, learning and understanding from a whole new perspective.
Can we approach this without the desperate wanting to know and find solace in facts by listening to the experts who have made their lives about understanding how to change our behaviors in such situations? What would that require of us? Who would we have to become? Are we up to the task?
These times require of each of us to manage our anxiety about all that is uncertain. A very simple, yet profound shift can happen by consciously breathing deeply to calm and soothe our nervous systems. As warmer weather is arriving, get outside and enjoy the soothing effect of connecting with nature. A couple of purple crocuses have appeared in my yard. How about yours—any signs of new life?
And bringing in our creativity, how can we impact another in a positive, supportive, uplifting way? How can we use our creative spirit to bring on new ways to do things that are helpful to ease the difficulty of a planet full of stressed people and systems? Compassion and kindness for ourselves and others is a great antidote.
Settle in, relax, breathe deep, feel into the new space, connect to life in a new way. Experience life from this quieted way of being and see what is available to you here. Not the same old same old. A new way to feel, be and do, with the potential for new discoveries and adventures.
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