The community of Chattanooga has really rallied together, doing everything to ensure that we were not only prepared but forward-thinking in planning and managing the COVID-19 pandemic. It is indeed inspiring to see all sectors of our community united toward this common mission. As this incredible work was underway, our community was tested again by Mother Nature when we were hit by a tornado Sunday night.
However, the community demonstrated resilience and strength yet again, uniting to care and support each other. Being a witness to this brought me true joy. I felt that my prayer for humanity in this New Normal was being demonstrated in leaps and bounds.
The feeling gave me hope and inspiration.
However, later in the day I was reminded via a rather harsh comment relayed to me, that change takes time, change takes patience, and change comes in different stages, different colors, and in different ways. The comment felt like a personal attack. I felt devalued and dehumanized.
In a conversation a few years ago, a very wise person once shared that human beings are the only animals that intentionally cause harm to their own. I remember responding that while that was true, we also have in our ability as humans to choose! We can choose to go above and beyond, to go out of our way to help each other, to care for each other in a purely selfless way! This belief has continued to give me hope.
So, as I was unpacking the comment I received, I reflected on its seemingly petty nature, especially in the bigger scheme of things, the global loss of human beings, our freedom, our life as we knew it. I decided to go for a walk—being in nature always helps.
Later that evening I turned to my quotes. Reflection on words of wisdom helps me relax, unwind, and refocus.
“In the course of history, there comes a time when humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness, to reach a higher moral ground. A time when we have to shed our fear and give hope to each other. That time is now.”
—Wangari Maathai
How do we hold on to hope when we collectively experience emotional fear, feeling devalued and dehumanized?
As I reflected I decided to lift up my favorite and valuable touchstone, “When things are difficult, turn to wonder.”
I would like to think that sometimes grief, hardships, personal battles—our own or those of others—are conveyed in ways that may appear or be perceived as harsh or unpleasant.
This pandemic is forcing us to try to understand and adapt to a New Normal! We are social animals who have known how to exist and thrive in physical communities. We need connection for our psychological safety and well-being, our emotional well-being. We are used to solving conflicts with a cup-of-coffee conversation. We are now having to find new ways to grasp these virtual communications. We don’t have the luxury of the tone of voice, the body language, the facial expressions, that heart and gut feeling that often overrule our analytical mind’s interpretations, mind’s feelings.
My feeling turned to one of forgiveness and gratitude. My mind relieved, my heart at peace, and my gut not in knots anymore.
Gratitude for so much, for the silver linings, but most of all my family and close friends.
I sent my dear friend (my publisher) my chosen quote with a brief background and she responded with this beautiful video.
A powerful reminder that I will do the best I can, like a hummingbird.
How is the coronavirus changing the way you think of self-care, community and resilience? As this challenging time unfolds, I am posting a daily quote on this blog with a reflection prompt. Please join in the conversation here or on Twitter with your thoughts or about what you are doing for self-care and care of others. My new book explores these ideas too: Resilient Threads: Weaving Joy and Meaning into Well-Being.
It is natural and normal to get disturbed in troubled times, specially when provoked; it happens to all, to humans as well as to animals. We, the humans however, are privileged to have analytical mind by which we can control our emotions and responses. Wisdom is in keeping cool, react with compassion, kindness and gratitude, and to forget and forgive. I think it was Mark Twain who said, 'Do not argue with fools; no one will be able to tell the difference'. There are times when to let go is the best option. Remember what Gandhi had said? 'No one can hurt me without my permission'. You should always remain in control of yourself.
When you walk on the path of righteousness, world walks behind you. That is your path, to serve the community, even though you may have to walk alone. Never lose hope, that is the silver lining illuminating your path. Humming bird might not have succeeded in dousing the fire, but she did succeed in creating an awareness in the community that, together, it can be done.
Well done Mukta. Stay calm and continue on your chosen path. Be like the humming bird. God will be your guide. We are proud of you.