This is the time to pause, because this too will pass

Pausing in the midst of the storm allows us to ground ourselves, root into the solidity of the earth, remain calm. This pause allows us to reconnect inside, remember who we are and the depth of goodness and generosity we are, to be present. Then, only then, can we turn this attention to those around us. Our solidity becomes the beacon of light for others near and far. In that moment we reconnect with all of our planet. This is justice, inside and out.

Because this too will pass. And what will we remember about this time? Will we talk about how we lived in fear? Or will we remember how we remembered to love? Will we talk about the moments we remembered the elderly person living down the block and sent kindness to them? What we do today becomes the foundation for how we continue tomorrow. And if we are aware, today already contains tomorrow in it. So remember, this will pass and how will we remember this time, what actions will remember us?

It’s a difficult time yes. Yet there is an opportunity for us to evolve toward a greater humanity. To secure our wellness and safety and stay focused on how much benefit a calm mind brings to society, instead of a distracted, fearful, impatient, or angry mind with no awareness. We may be practicing social distancing if this is an opportunity for us. Or taking the preventive care we can so we stay well in the midst of working. Some may be practicing breathing, staying calm and sending that energy near and far to maintain a more calm world. Some of us will share information via social media. Others of us are on the ground delivering food or serving take-out food. Others are on the front line engaging with those of us affected directly by the virus. Others are driving some to work. Whatever we are doing, the collective consciousness of our society is one-pointed at the moment. Consider the power of one-pointed kindness, in body, speech, and mind.

In these moments of focused awareness, we can also turn our attention to kindness. For every thought of ‘the virus’ we can also remember to breathe. Or send a thought of kindness to a stranger tucked away in China, or Venezuela, or Italy, or Haiti, or Australia. Maybe send an email to that friend we haven’t talked to for a couple years: ‘Hello there, hope you and those around you are well’. This is taking care of the collective consciousness.

It is time to balance our thoughts and intentions toward a positive outcome for all. Time to not run away from our worry or fears; to hold them, acknowledge they can be there, right along with the hope, kindness, and compassion.

So while we think about this pandemic, its effect on the world, the disproportionate way it is and will affect our most vulnerable populations (Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the poor and low income, homeless and those living in group settings, incarcerated, immigrants at risk, elderly and immunocompromised) remember to balance these thoughts with kindness. Kindness for yourself and kindness for others.

Remember something you are grateful for and write it down: at least 5 times during the day. Each morning write down what you will do to enjoy yourself that day, and do it. Rest and do not feel compelled to: produce (that’s why we’re in this mess now!). If you feel the social anxiety to produce maybe take some time to reflect: “where does this come from? Can I start to let some of this go?”

Because this is the time friends. This is the time for us to evolve into the beautiful and noble next iteration of who we can become. Do not let this moment escape. Tomorrow may be too late, so remember now.

Some resources to stay inspired and informed.

“Sending You Light” by Melanie DeMore