This is a challenging time. No one has ever seen anything like this, and we are unlikely to ever see anything like it again. We are being asked to rise. We are being asked to have compassion for our friends, our neighbors, our enemies, and ourselves.
It can be difficult when what we want isn’t going our way. Our frustrations can be unleashed on those who have little to do with our problems. This is a time to take a breath and think before we respond.
So many of us have lost our income. We are having to file for unemployment and take steps that we never expected to take. We did everything right. Each one of us is the walking wounded. We have so much in common right now, but it can be hard to see other people’s pain when we can barely see our own.
Last week was a challenge. The place where I have been working part-time closed its doors until we are able to open again. Last year I experienced all these major shifts and put the pieces together to have half of my plan blown apart again. My first step was to make it through a day and then through the week. It can be too hard to make decisions when you’re just trying to get through the day.
Once I made it through my work week, the next step was to take care of anything that I needed while on my way home. Then I arrived home and cleaned up anything germs that I might have on me. I washed the floors, the surfaces, and anything else I might have touched. My final step was to give myself time. I knew from experience that I could only take care of my most immediate needs at that moment. I gave myself permission to feel anything I felt. I listened to USA For Africa’s “We Are the World” and cried. I worked through my pride and filed for unemployment so I could pay my bills. I allowed myself to be angry at what this virus has done to the world, my plans, and to grieve for what I and others have lost.
The world that we knew is not the same place and it can’t be. When you do venture outside to get groceries or gas, say hello and thank the clerk. Accept that the things you need might not be available. Have compassion for those around you. We are all in this together and are feeling the same things. We will come out of this better people.
After the attacks on September 11th one of the lessons I have always remembered was a sense of unity in our collective grief. People hung their American flags at their door. We have an opportunity again. There is always a possibility of a rainbow after a rainstorm, but we must look for it. Look for the silver lining. We are resilient and will come through this stronger than ever. We can do this but show a little kindness to each person. It goes a long way.
How are you showing compassion? Let me know. Do you want to know more about what I do? Click here to book a discovery session or an appointment.