Here I am, just under the
wire of returning to your inbox in January as I promised in my last message to you. My midwinter cocooning lasted a bit longer than I anticipated, but also felt just right. I can't say I am fully rested and renewed, the world is just too chaotic for that, but I am ready to remember some simple truths about being hard times, including a lesson from the daffodils coming up outside my front door.
Shall we?
1.
Don't override your tiredness and overwhelm.
Things are chaotic and frightening, especially here in the US with the new administration. I also know that this country has a big foot print in the world and
our politics and politics have impact outside of our borders. Many that we love, maybe including you, are in the direct line of harm from inhuman beliefs and polices.
It may seem like the wrong time to take a break but resting and orienting to what is essential in times of upheaval and chaos it is form of radical action for a better world.
2.
If we want to tend the world we must also tend ourselves.
What is your personal practice(s) for challenging times? If you don't have one, look to those things that ground you and nourish you. Your practice(s) don't have to perfect and you don't have to execute them perfectly. It is important to tap into them when
and as often as you can.
Is your journal dusty? Yoga mat hidden in the back of the closet? Too long since walked in your favorite park? Listened to a favorite song on repeat and danced with abandon? Watched a comforting movie that feels like a warm blanket? Ate a delicious meal, and yes take out counts? Our nourishing practices are patient and are waiting
to support you. It is never too late to visit them.
She is my emotional support chicken. I cast on the day after the election, It seemed like a good time for some whimsy and comfort. She sits on my lap when the world is scary. Holding on to something soft and cute helps me regulate my over stimulated nervous system.
Indulge in some whimsy. It will lift your spirits and have
you remember how delightful the world is, even when it is also so complicated and hurtful.
4.
A lesson from my daffodils that are rising tall and getting ready to bud.
The angel is a little wink from my mom. They are a reminder to
have faith.
Bulbs buried deep in the dark earth know how to
find their way to light and blooming. They do not forget how to flower and do not forget to rest deeply when blooming is done.
We too can trust that deep with us is a storage of fortitude and knowledge to guide us, even when everything feels cold and barren. Trust in your ability to bloom, to find your way out of the dark. Allow yourself to rest and go fallow when you need so that you can bloom again. And again. And
again.
Also, rising and blooming, resting and rejuvenating grows in community. Each year these little daffodils grow in numbers. I will take some and plant them in another spot so the joy they bring can spread. We are the same. Find those who want to grow and spread goodness with you.
Just because goodness and beauty are not seen does not mean they are
gone. Have faith. They will appear again. Probably closer and sooner than you think.
