We have a choice in how we are with each other

These are unprecedented times in America. Never in my lifetime have I seen anything like this. I will be 100% honest with you......it's something that gives me a lot of pause.

We are being told to stay away from places we go to every day.  Many are not allowed to go to work, and while it might be a crappy place for some to go, for others it is a second family.   Our kids are not allowed to go to school where they see their teachers and friends five days a week.  In recent days we can't go and sit at our favorite coffee shop or eatery.  All sports are cut off, a past time for many to view, and, a livelihood for others.  Our daily lives cut off as we know it.

We watch the news and see the stock market tanking.  There is talk of an impending recession  and reminds of the crash of '08 that hurt so many in society.  Fear of what might happen to peoples jobs and businesses is real. The daily news cycle brings us much to worry about.  Even if what the news says doesn't happen, as we know is the case in many scenarios, this has brought us all to a place where we have much to be worried about.

Now, what do you do with it all?  What do you do with the concern, the worry.....the stress. 

Keep a hopeful mindset always. Nothing in life is permanent is something I always remember. This will pass. While it might have some lasting effects, it will pass. I have been through things in life where it was hard to thing of a hopeful future. Yet, I was taught, that hope is something to never give up. I am hopeful that this will pass and we will all be able to get back to normal.  I am even hopeful knowing there are going to be struggles ahead.  Hope is what will get us through.

Practice doing something for others.  This is a time where we can find ways to get out of ourselves and think of how to help someone else. As a person in recovery you learn early on to help others. Doing this is for the common good of the cause. There is a beautiful side benefit of helping others too; I get our of my own head! If I am busy helping someone else I don't have as much time to stay stuck in my head thinking about myself. 

Keep your routines. You might have to adapt if you are used to sitting with friends at a coffee shop, or, you go to the gym each day, but, you can still keep your routines.  Having some sense of control over your life is critical right now. So, adapt your routines to fit the current situation. Keeping your routines will help a lot right now.

Be kind to each other. This is the one that we have the most control over.  The next time you go to the store, be kind to the person checking you out.  When you are out getting fresh air on a walk and see someone doing the same, say hello. When you feel angst inside talk to someone about it. They are likely feeling the same and you sharing yours with them might very well help them more than you know. 

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