Grieving Well

Exhale.

This year keeps making me feel the deep and overwhelming need to exhale. To let some of the pressure escape…to prevent the tension from becoming too much…So that I can then take another breath in the service of continuing on and moving forward. Because really, with all that 2020 has brought, what else is there?

We are now in the eighth month of shelter-in-place. I have learned of the passing of two friends due to Covid. I miss my parents like crazy and wish we lived closer together. I feel incredibly isolated at times. My heart aches with each bit of national and global news surrounding the pandemic, race, justice (or lack thereof), and the upcoming November election. My heart feels everything. And it is all just so much.

There is much to grieve. And as I’ve been on the journey, I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to grieve well. To do it properly and intentionally…not indulgently but earnestly in the service of health and growth.

Radical acceptance. Rest. Self care. FaceTime with family and friends. Time outdoors. A good cry. Some ice cream and a good book.

It’s been a little difficult to find time and space these days to be creative, but I’m trying.