Processing
Like many people, I went to bed upset and woke up numb. This was not unexpected — the world has been moving toward this as a whole — but it doesn’t make it any less worrisome.
I’ve used two articles to keep things in perspective. The first is an article from Pew Research pointing out that our memories are fuzzy — consolidation of power (holding the White House, Senate, and House) happens almost every single election and is often gone by the midterms. I found the visual timeline helpful as a reminder that this too shall pass, hopefully without too much lasting damage. (Positive thinking.)
The other is an article about emotional circuit breakers. If you’re numb today, there is a reason. You will not always be numb. If the task ahead looks too large, that’s because it is. Instead of feeling you must hold the whole world in your hands, focus your efforts on one small area. Care deeply about one small area. Lend support to the other areas (as others will lend support to you), but keep your focus tight so you don’t burn out.
Today looks bleak. Hopefully, the future will not look as bleak. That’s where I need to be not to fall apart this morning.
3 comments
Thank you. Thank you for this. The reminder that it may not be as completely bleak as it feels is so needed. Ugh.
It’s in the darkness, that the light bearers shine the brightest.
I’m not numb, unlike last time. But I’m also not resigned. We have work to do. It’s time for the old guard to pass the torch and allow for a new way forward. Often it means facing a great evil to bring about this change, but it also means we have no choice but to bury old mindsets and move to the new.
Abiding with you and all others who will bravely walk this path with me.
I am not numb. I’m angry and hopeless. But I am making plans to protect myself (and hey, if you want to come to flyover country, I will protect you too!) and my girl as best I can. Also, I’m buying appliances before the tariff war begins.