As I contemplate what to write after such a long pause since my last post, I feel uncertain how to begin. We’ve made it through yet another pandemic year of isolation, anxiety, stress, and frustration. There now seems to be a light at the end of this long dark tunnel, but can we trust it will last? It appears that our society is unraveling on all levels – our democracy, healthcare, homelessness, addiction, violence, schools, and supply chains just to name a few disturbing issues. And over all this now lies the shadow of war, and even more importantly the issue of climate change.
Today at 75, I’m all too aware how short life is. Thinking about my mortality definitely makes me want to re-examine my activities, my relationships and my attitudes towards life. More than ever I’m feeling the need to reach out and connect with my friends and family. How do I really want to spend my days? Can I live more joyfully, socially connected, and grateful for what time I have left? I’ve spent too many sleepless nights in recent months worrying about all that’s wrong in the world. It’s time to let go of all I cannot change and make a commitment to myself to live more compassionately, playfully and gratefully right now.
The question is not, “when will this pandemic be over”, but “how can I live today to the fullest”. I am committed to devoting more time to all the things I deem as meaningful and that add joy to our world. I cannot solve the big problems, but I CAN affect those in my little corner of the world. This is my belated New Year’s wish for all of us.
Thank you Carolyn for sharing your words and feelings mirrored by so many of us these days. I’ve always had a grateful attitude which certainly helps, but these days it takes more. Friends and family to share our concerns, staying busy with work and hobbies gives release to some of the stress. As do those tail wagging, purrrrrrring therapists who share our lives – – – God love ’em. They teach us so much.
Appreciate your thoughtful sharing Carolyn. Love this part especially: The question is not, “when will this pandemic be over”, but “how can I live today to the fullest”. I am committed to devoting more time to all the things I deem as meaningful and that add joy to our world. I cannot solve the big problems, but I CAN affect those in my little corner of the world.
It is the many people of goodwill and caring like yourself that give me hope for the future as well as my belief that these horrific times that have stirred the conscience of the world are bringing humanity together to become united in overcoming the many ills suffered the world over.
I look forward to seeing you again my friend! Much love, Julie
I do think this EB White quote says it all: “I arise in the morning torn between a desire to savor the world and a desire to save it. This makes it hard to plan the day.”
As your wonderful writing implies, we won’t have the energy to save the world, if we don’t savor it first along with a little focus on self-care too.
Off to do my daily stretching, after a touch of gardening and a fabulous. connecting weekend with friends…. love, Kathy
Thank you, Carolyn. As usual your thoughts are right on the mark–the moment we all share: past, present and future. And you describe well the issues we’re all thinking about. Keep it up!
Yes, Carolyn….your list of the dark problems of the World is scary but we must take the time to appreciate the blessings we have.
Besides worrying about my own health, I, too, find myself worrying and dwelling on all the problems facing our world at THIS time. Sometimes it helps to remember that throughout the centuries the problems facing individuals have often been so great that they have seemed overwhelming! Somehow man survives and lives to give birth to progeny and to new ideas and new ways of looking at things. Perhaps that’s the answer….new ways of looking at things. Smiling at a stranger, opening a door, saying “Hi, that’s a pretty blouse,” acknowledging someone’s politeness with a “thankyou,” these help the receiver and ALWAYS add to your own well-being.
You are such a sage and inspiration! Thanks for sharing! xo Ruthie
As usual, your insights are right on. I admire your ability to do this. Since I am 90, I have experienced much of the sadness in the world, but also the goodness. Mother Theresa once said, “be happy in the moment, that’s enough, each moment is all you need, never more.” I try my best to follow her advice.
Thank you for your endearing words,
I couldn’t agree more with your wise words. I envy your ability to put into words your feelings. I have a hard time trying to do that. Recently I’ve seen it empathized from several different directions to let go
of things you cannot change. I think I do that quite well but as I’ve given that thought to others It makes me think about that more for myself. This year I have a new Great Granddaughter and my first Great-Great Grandson. I look at them and realize that I probably won’t live to see them grown up but I will
enjoy them now as much as time allows. Since the death of my oldest daughter, I’ve been able to spend more time with my other daughter and we are having such fun. I’m most grateful for this.
Thank you Carolyn for sharing and giving me some wise words to ponder.