A Message of Hope from Julie
As we continue to monitor this ever-changing world and navigate our response, I wanted to reach out to you to say we very much miss seeing you.
As many of you know, during my youth in Iran, I lived through "social distancing" through Martial Law and curfews, which were implemented during revolution, followed by an evacuation.
I reflect on this time to offer you some words of wisdom:
Take each moment as it comes. As I’ve mentioned, I’ve experienced every emotion, and I'm sure you have, too. Allow yourself to feel angry and sad and pissed off. Sometimes it can be challenging to see the silver lining. The goal is to not let those feelings stay too long so that they become a health concern.
It is in times of crisis that we see the greatness of humanity. It is also an opportunity for endings and letting go. Do not leave things unsaid with the people you love.
If you feel overwhelmed (I think of the families that are doing everything for their kids), reach out to a friend and say, "I’m having a hard time coping."
Maybe lock yourself in the bathroom so that you can have alone time. When my kids were young and I needed space, that’s what I would do. (Baths became a place of peace for me).
Don’t try to hold it all in if you are scared. It is a scary time.
I leave you with this:
LIFE Is A Growing Expedition by Sabrina Ward Harrison
Life is a growing expedition through the tangled and unfilled in parts.
Because of the fear we don’t trust our own life? Our story? Our colors?
To be afraid and leap regardless, there is such power in that.
To live into the questions of our lives when nothing feels clear.
We have this chance to reach out to another, vulnerable and true.
To dance on the roof in euphoria, to pray into the ocean and let go.
We have this chance every moment to be alive and give to this world, which needs each one of us.
We must show up for our own life.
Be brave.
Be messy.
Be loud.
Be strong.
Trust yourself.
Peace and health - we will get through this together,
Julie