If ever there's been a time for us to explore ways we can deepen our presence and compassion and nourish our connection with each other, this is it. 

I often think of my late grandmother who raised me. She lived through WWII and told me stories of great uncertainty, loss, deprivation, and suffering. She also told me stories of rebuilding after the war had ended. I think of all of my ancestors who survived past epidemics, natural disasters, and wars. And I am reminded that we all are part of something greater, of generations of survivors across history. We carry their resilience inside of us. 

I know many of us are experiencing a range of emotions - fear, anxiety, sadness, grief, frustration, anger, ... It's all normal as we're seeking to find our way through this. We can stop, take a deep breath, and acknowledge and honor our fear with compassion. We might say, "Thank you for trying to protect me. I am OK for now." And we might open to the resilience that has been passed down to us from our ancestors. 

Who and how do you want to be in this crisis? What's your sincere intention or aspiration? Take a moment to connect with your heart and listen for an answer. Let it be your North Star. Let it remind you of what matters most whenever you need it.

We were made for these times. 

Below are a few resources to support you.

With love,

Sarah-Marie

Resources

[PRACTICE] Self-Compassion Break

Adapted from Kristin Neff. 

Bring to mind a difficult situation in your life. Sense into the stress and discomfort of this situation and see if you can feel it in your body, heart, and mind. 

Step 1. Acknowledge the difficulty, stress, and/or pain of this moment. 
You may say to yourself: 

• This hurts.

• Ouch.

• This is stress.

Step 2. Acknowledge that difficulty and pain/discomfort are a part of life. 
You may say to yourself: 

• Other people feel this way.

• I’m not alone.

• We all struggle in our lives.

Now, put your hands over your heart and feel the warmth of your hands and the gentle touch of your hands on your chest. Or adopt the soothing touch you discovered felt right for you.

Step 3. Offer kindness to yourself. 
Ask yourself, “What do I need to hear right now to show kindness to myself?” 
You may say to yourself: 

• It’s ok. 

• May I learn to accept myself just as I am. 

• May I forgive myself. 

• May I be strong.

• May I be patient. 

If you’re having difficulty finding the right words, imagine that a good friend or loved one is facing the same challenge as you. What would you say to this person? What simple message would you like to share with your friend? Now offer that message to yourself. 

[PRACTICE] Acknowledging Our Fear 

We can stop, take a deep breath, and acknowledge and honor our fear with compassion. We might say, "Thank you for trying to protect me. I am OK for now." And we might open to the resilience that has been passed down to us from our ancestors who have survived crises in the past. 

[POEM]

Allow by Danna Faulds 
There is no controlling life.
Try corralling a lightning bolt,
containing a tornado. Dam a
stream, and it will create a new
channel. Resist, and the tide
will sweep you off your feet.
Allow, and grace will carry
you to higher ground. The only
safety lies in letting it all in –
the wild with the weak; fear,
fantasies, failures and success.
When loss rips off the doors of
the heart, or sadness veils your
vision with despair, practice
becomes simply bearing the truth.