Finding Grace During the Pandemic

We all have experienced this pandemic together yet are all impacted deeply and have grown since it started. Some have found themselves displaced, without work or lost their homes and wonder what the future will hold. Others have had to try to maintain a high quality of work while assisting their small children with their online schooling. Quiet tears have been shed, there have been times under stressful circumstances that we may have lashed out at those we love most, and some have lost their loved ones in death. All the while humanity’s quiet resilience continues to move forward. Soul growth is experienced in silence it is deep and profound.

I think the most valuable quality to embody is compassion for ourselves first then for those around us. We have shifted in perspective! What mattered before seems insignificant. What would we give to hug those we love most? The trip to the mall to buy the latest fashion accessories or gadget seems pointless and we prefer to ensure those we love are well and have what they need. Home is where the heart is, and it is something beyond the bricks and mortar.

Tears fill my eyes as I think of the gratitude I feel for my closest tribe. Those who check up on me to make sure I am ok, healthy and remind me of how loved and cherished I am. It is a precious gift to recognize that love and connection is the greatest asset we have in our life. Think about the relief that is felt when you hear the voice of those you love over voice note, the zoom calls or the distanced coffee with your best friend. How your soul exhales knowing for that there is no possession or monetary value that could replace that moment. Life is love and being who we are, spirit, essence - our heart cracked open to love in all its brilliance.

Last year at this time I lost a soul who was very dear to me and the lessons he left behind fill me with love and appreciation. The colours of the leaves seem that much brighter knowing somehow his spirit lives on in the wind, in the birds chirping and I hear his voice reminding me to cherish life. We are all held and protected, what brings us to our knees ends up being our greatest catalyst.

As we step into the second wave of the pandemic know you are stronger than you were before. We overcame our shyness and began to dance on video with family, friends and even those we didn’t know. Ha! There was one night I even put on a party dress not to impress anyone, it was to dance and enjoy my own light and essence. I laughed as the music blasted on my speakers and I enjoyed a party in the privacy of my own living room.

We cannot control what goes on outside - but can control our own world. We can protect our thinking, what we feed our mind on and we can create moments of wellbeing in our own life. It only takes effort and focus, a walk in nature, drawing, painting, or learning new dance moves we are curious about. Truth is we have a peace within reach that no one can disturb. We create our own inner world and, in this world, we can find solace and joy.

Create private moments to cherish the now, put on a funny movie or create one with those closest to you, listen to music and dance, close your eyes and feel that joy that has always been there. That joy is waiting for you to remember your brilliance, the zest of life and childlike laughter. Find that gorgeous little child within that giggles until their belly hurts and doesn’t care what others think!

Let me share a secret, contrary to those that may say the world is in crisis how can you suggest we ignore what is happening in the world? I am alert and am conscious of the sorrow, civil unrest and suffering in the world. My choice is to contribute the highest vibration of love, joy, kindness and compassion to the world. To remind those around me that if we emulate those qualities outwardly the world would be free of many of the troubles that surround us. It also permits us to have the space to give to others, wipe the tears of sorrow from their faces and reflect back how beautiful and resilient they are. If I don’t fill my cup, am feeling hopeless and have not nourished my soul I do not have the strength to extend a hand to help someone get back up.

So, know that as we enter the second wave of the pandemic with it comes the opportunity for growth, expansion and to make a difference. Tell your colleagues, friends, family and connections how much you cherish their existence on this planet. Find ways to make the heavy days a bit lighter for yourself. It is ok to cry, to acknowledge that uncertainty is scary and remind yourself there have been moments in the past you didn’t know how you would make it through. Yet here you are, standing tall, strong and beautiful. Look in the mirror, deep into your eyes and see that strong spirit that wakes up each morning ready to cease the day. Today you are safe, if you have what you need for today be grateful and know that these challenging times too will pass. Know that in difficult times it is possible to create light -hearted moments of joy and appreciate the gift of life.

If you have the capability to be of service to others or give to those in need then do so as it will contribute to your feeling of community and joy. There are things we can all do to make these times a bit easier for ourselves and the world around us. For those celebrating Thanksgiving join me in giving thanks for the gift of life! Spread cheer and love.

Reach out to me if you would like support in finding ways to connect with your inner wisdom, joy and how to be present while finding calm in a stressful world.

Sending you so much love!

Samantha