Dear One,
Every day since the inauguration has brought distressing news: illegal firings, humanitarian aid withheld, trade wars with allies issued, family separations unleashed, Treasury Department data handed to private citizens, DEI protections cancelled…
It’s exhausting. Breathe.
You will feel all the things. Grieve the losses—it’s what steels your compassion. Take the time to hold the shards of every precious thing in your heart after your country has crushed it beneath its heel. Even the memory of what is beautiful is spiritual fire.
Do something with your inevitable rage. Every day, if necessary. Pound the treadmill, take up kickboxing, recruit a friend willing to dip beneath the frigid sea with you to reset your control panel. You are angry because you believe in goodness, and it’s painful to witness the unleashing of cruelty. Anger needs an outlet, or it will consume you. Take time to Let.It.Go. When the anger returns, let it go again.
Find peace in nature. Walk into the woods and lean against the trunk of a great oak; feel its unmovable strength against your back. Listen to the gentle lapping of water; trace the smoothness of a river rock in your palm. Notice the insuppressible joy of songbirds. Consider moon wisdom. Let balsam fill your lungs.
Pray often. Perhaps with words. Or let your body be a prayer: hold the hand of one who suffers, lend your ear to the unheard, and let your gaze rest on those who have become invisible so that they become seen. Prayer is often action. Also, sometimes prayer is listening. Practice both.
Find ways to be a helper. You know, that whole Mr. Rogers thing. Be the good you so desperately want in the world. Each of us has the ability to impact those we come in contact with. When you can, widen your impact. Find organizations that do good work and support them with your time or resources. Call your representatives to let them know where you stand. When there is opportunity to elect officials with dignity, support them. Consider working locally to help good people become community leaders.
Don’t let resentment become a thing. Maintain healthy relationships, and release the ones that cause you harm. We cannot convince others of what is honorable. Each of us is defined by the beliefs we live out in our daily lives. Do not concern yourself with someone else’s progress. Use your energy wisely.
Surround yourself with good friends. Rest often. Find a creative outlet. Actively nurture your wellbeing.
There are still lights in this darkness. You are one of them.
You will feel all the things. Don’t give up.
2/6/2025