Rhythm & Soul

The pace and cadence of life has certainly been altered for every human alive - at least those living in the globalized psycho-space known by those likely to read these lines.  Masks and gloves and schedule restrictions, business closure and changes necessary for curating experiences conducive to public health - all these things and more permeate everything from errand running to commencement ceremonies and birthday parties...  Our individual and collective rhythm is disrupted, and has been for long enough to impact the soul for good or ill.

Humans are creatures for whom a sense of rhythm is inherently desired, evidenced by the fact that the devices by which we sense time's passage were put into motion before we were created (Genesis 1).  Without some awareness of the time of day or the day of the week, which has happened for many folks since the famous virus enforced adaptation in (and abandonment of) daily, weekly, even monthly routines.  This time of isolation and distance, cancellations and postponements, announcements and obstacles - it is a test of resilience and resolve.  Mental health, physical fitness, personal relationships, financial disruption, even shifts in how we observe worship practices - the proverbial beat to which our lives march forward has changed, taking with it all we attempt to orchestrate and accomplish.  No wonder so many of us are virtually limping in one area or another.

Bedtime and waking, workouts and leisure, socialization and vocation

...

all prone to faltering in this time unless we apply some measure of practical imagination.

Image source:  https://www.reddit.com

So, how then shall we live, given the circumstances and their relative consequences?  

We are creative creatures, capable of overcoming and adaptation; 

therefore, we navigate by troubleshooting and problem solving as required.  

Jotting with Johnna:

• With so much propaganda and expert advice highlighting what we "cannot" or "should not" do, ask the question, "what CAN I do today?"
• What former aspirations can you revisit, revise, or rest - and what accouterments of those you elect to release can be donated to benefit someone else or sold to help offset financial struggles?
• Whom might have otherwise received a visit from you during this time; and how can you reach out to the person(s) in safe but meaningful ways?  (letters/cards/telephone/email/text)
• Where can you still go - perhaps a place you took for granted previously - and enjoy sunshine, music, flora and fauna?
• Why not journal your thoughts or even free-write (no censorship or prejudgment, no editing as you jot), and thus clarify your feelings, prayers, concerns, gratitude..?

Remember:
Whatever is going on around you, you alone control what happens within you; and you are so very worthy of prioritizing the wellbeing of your mind, body, soul, spirit, and social sphere.

Stay tuned.  Stay focused.  Stay well.