Hello my lovelies,

Entering week 2 of this self-isolation thing.  It’s starting to get to me a little.  I miss people.

I’ve been thinking about something I often hear my students talk about, and I’m also hearing the phrase a lot on the news nowadays: the “real world,” or “real life.”  It’s the idea that these days are just an interlude, a pause, and one day we’ll get back to routine.

When students talk about the “real world” as though it’s something that comes later, something that’s “out there,” I like to remind them that this is life, right now.  Today is a day in your life that you’ll never get back.  There’s a lot you can do, today, to develop your mind, body, and spirit.  You, and your one precious life, are not on pause.

I keep thinking about this as I hear news items about COVID, and the talking heads on television speak of this time as something to be endured, to be gotten through.  I see a lot of similar memes on social media.  While I understand that many of these are meant to be encouraging – “Just hang in there!” – I wonder if we’re missing out on precious opportunities to live our best lives.

This is an uncomfortable time for many of us.  It’s also a unique opportunity to reflect, to slow down, to rest, to get to know ourselves in a way that we usually don’t have time for.  Have you always meant to start a journal?  Learn a new skill?  This might just be the time.

Sending special love to all of those who must continue working, and interacting with others, during this stressful time.  I see you, and I appreciate you.  Your sacrifices are not going unnoticed.

Have courage, my friends.  I am keeping you in my prayers.

Fondly,

Annette