Few of us would describe this as an easy time. And yet…we are here, on this beautiful and generous earth, living and breathing into this day. We have choices in terms of where we put our attention, our time, our care. ‘Staying informed’ feels paramount these days, but even in this, we get to decide how much, how often, where, when, and in what capacity we take in the information. That’s a lot already to decide and to manage.
And then there’s living, focusing and re-focusing (and re-focusing yet again) on what we can control and what we must let go of, in order to function well in our spheres of influence.
What is undeniably clear is that we need each other, that community is everything, and that each of us has a part to play, our own unique gifts to bring to the world. If we are to show up for each other and what we hold dear, it also means we must show up for ourselves, our wellbeing, and our Wild spirits.
Even on days that feel particularly burdensome, we must, at least for moments, step away from the heaviness and reconnect with our vitality, the gift of being alive. If delight feels a little out of reach, go for sips of joy—little moments that bring us back to ourselves:
Birdsong
A smile exchanged with a stranger
The feel of sun on your skin
Some deep breaths that open your chest
A walk, phone call, even a text with a friend
Sips of joy start to flow pretty easily once they get started, the reciprocity natural and easy. Here’s a recent sip of joy for me — an out of the blue text from a dear friend, an example, just to get you started…
Hi friend, just checking in, offering a hand on the shoulder or a quick hug. I hope you’re doing well. Or at least well enough. Actually, I hope you’re joyful!
I’m busy with a lot of projects and work this coming week.
But… when I get a chance, I’ll text more about our trip to Arizona and walking in the desert, my, how soul scrubbing that is. It brings our connection right back to me, our shared love of the red rocks and sand and the spirits that reside there.
It’s a beautiful sunny day here and I’m appreciative of that. Appreciative of my peaceful home, my family, my work and my wife. And of course my good dog! Happy to take a moment to sit in the morning sun, have a cup of coffee, and text my beloved friend in Minnesota.
Receiving a text like that makes me feel joyful indeed.
