We have all been going through an unmatched year of strange and unimaginable experiences. Many people are suffering extraordinary circumstances and most of us have had some kinds of losses, disappointments, loneliness, worries, and/or upsets. And yet, many of us are also discovering new insights, epiphanies, and deeper life learnings. I believe we are being given an opportunity to re-evaluate our priorities and find new ways of connecting with love in our friendships, families, and with other people we encounter. My heart goes out to those who are suffering severely and having deep hardships.
To deal with sadness and to see the silver linings, I suggest the following practices that have helped me and those I know:
- Wake up and feel gratitude for all that I have. With every loss or disappointment, I have found new understandings or insights. Even in the darkest moments, there are some moments of joy! Count your blessings.
- Shine compassionate grace on yourself and others. See the heart in everyone and stop making enemies or complaints about others. This time is a golden opportunity to see that we are more alike than different.
- Live in the present and do not become overwhelmed with all the “what ifs” or other speculations of what is to come. I deal with each day as it comes and trust I will have the inner strength to deal with the next situation as it arises.
- Notice synchronicities and blessings wherever you might find them. In my family, when we find a penny, it is a symbol of pennies from heaven—our mom and dad. We send the picture of where we found it and it is uplifting for all of us.
- Be personally responsible for those things in your control and stop carrying unneeded and definitely not necessary guilt. Our feelings are a result of what we say to ourselves. Tell a new story.
- Trust in the unknown and do not waste energy on things, people, and circumstances that are not in our control.
- Express love and do not just assume people already know it. Reach out to people you have not seen lately. Make someone’s day!
