We are all dealing, to some extent, with the ups and downs of sheltering in place. I’m in New York City, and our SiP guidelines have been pretty strict, given our population density, the amount of international traffic into and through our city, and the resulting risk of transmission. And of course, I know several people who have been diagnosed with the illness, as well as others facing different physical, financial, and other challenges. We’re learning a lot every day about this new virus, and it is confusing, tiring, overwhelming to not know how this will play out. But I’m grateful for small rituals, for friends, and for the surprising, full-of-love-and-support reaction to a no-photo post on FB.
“Today, I’m tired (D42?), low on sleep, acknowledging some fear and sadness, and trying to rest.
Then I hear a strong voice yell out, “what time is it?! 7pm!”
And another strong voice responds, “Yeah, baby!”
And the clapping, pot banging, and cheering starts. So, I climb out on the fire escape, the family across the way waves at me, I too start clapping, and my heart soars again.
#ThankYouEssentialWorkers Thank You #NYC #WeWillMakeIt “
*** And then the loving and humorous comments began – I include just two of the screenshots. Those two minutes of cheering created a bright spot in my down day; and the outpouring (again, to a no-photo-post. that was noticed!) of caring and connection, even if virtual, warmed and strengthened my spirit, faith, foundation, whatever you prefer to call it. Brene’ Brown speaks of the power of vulnerability, and how when we admit the challenges, we create the space for things and people to step in to help us. Much to reflect on there– the power of a few minutes, about vulnerability, perceptions of weakness and strength, emotional cycles and deepening connection — but apart from that, how incredible is that show of support?! ? We can go on being peaceful and strong, admit when we’re having a bad day… and people send loving support… and our hearts-view flips to joy and hope. The amazing thing is that this applies in our personal as well as our professional lives. Perhaps admitting vulnerability truly is powerful 😉 . It is certainly empowering!
June 16 post-script. A lot has happened in the interim (discussed a bit in other posts), and yesterday was day 91 of shelter-in-place, day 15 of renewed BLM marches and protests for justice, it’s Pride month and the US Supreme Court decided today to protect LGBTQ folk from workplace discrimination. While there are many calls for unity, equity, inclusion, we all still feel isolated, and are at different points on the “coronacoaster.” In the vein of silver linings and a bit of humor, this happened yesterday, June 15. Imagine the scene of two New Yorkers yelling across a block of space. Thank you neighbors for keeping me & each other strong. I am so grateful.
