I cannot be happy today.
Because what we have, right now, at this moment in the great unpleasantness is a lot of sickness, a lot of death, a lot of fear and a lot of what the hell is happening?
We are, all of us, scared. If you don’t think you’re scared, then I actually think you may require even more therapy than I do. And that’s saying something.
We are currently surrounded by fire breathing dragons.
Here’s the temptation: distract yourself! Numb out! Drink! Escape! Pretend it’s all fantastic and you’re doing just fine!
Here’s what’s actually helpful: face the dragons. Look them in their dark uncertain eyes and say Listen, Dragons, you’re big and scary and I have absolutely no idea what you’re capable of.
BUT . . . .
Wait, but what? Isn’t that the end? Isn’t that what we have right now? Just little us and big fire breathing dragons?
Far from it. What we have is BUT I know that I can be OK, I know that I can make good decisions, I know that I can have gratitude and I know that I can still find the joy in the small things.
The dragons may come for you. They may come for your money or your job or your elderly parents or even your child or your spouse. That’s why they’re called dragons and not butternut squash.
But you can stay firmly planted on the ground with the resolve of knowing that you can stay centered. That you can show love and gratitude. That you can wake up and find a way to spread joy and spread gratitude. Or maybe just find a way to take a shower, whatever.
Don’t pretend the dragons aren’t there. Because they are. But don’t forget that there are also people who love you and birds and trees and a God that created you. If I’m going to be honest, I am no longer certain what he (or she) did beyond that but that part is still pretty clear for me.
Dragons? Yes. Faith? Also yes. Joy? When you can.
Until tomorrow.
Please let this be in your book when that happens. You are brilliant.
Thank you, Dawn! That means a lot to me. I’m always a little insecure when I write so that means a lot.
Hey Jen, How have I just found this? Lordy. Any who, I love your writing. I went back and read from the beginning of this Covid pandemic. It can be so difficult to remain any kind of upbeat with all that is going on now, but doing the best you can is how you keep going. My mom is 89 years old and on her birthday this year one of my friends asked her what the secret to a long life was and she said “just keep breathing” . That is what I intend to do. So Jen, Hang in, and hang on, and know that you make a difference in peoples lives with your channels and with taking us along with you day to day. Thank you for sharing with us, even when it is difficult.
Kasey
I love that and YES – just keep breathing! And it is my pleasure, Kasey. thank you!
Just found this because of your twitter post. I don’t comment on your social media platforms, but I’m always here, watching and reading. You make me laugh and cry. I baked scones with my kids last week after watching your video and we will do it again for our Easter afternoon tea. All that to say that you spread your special brand of joy every day around my house. I love your blog. There is nothing quite like words on a page.
Remembering back a few years now when I first discovered your channel because of a dvc post. I found my way to your blog and your running stories. Read them all, and now I’ve been running for two years. Star Wars was going to be my first half.
Keep at it Jen. Even though we’ve never met, I know we’d be friends. Your spirit is contagious and you make me happy every day, not just during this tough time. Hoping one day our paths will cross. Be well.