We are all in this together! I keep hearing that, but never have I felt more alone. I am a social person, I thrive on the connections I share with my family, friends, and co-workers. I know this is heavy- so let me explain.
Yesterday was a really hard day for me, and I’m sharing that because I’ve been doing okay with all of this social distancing, feeling like I have been caring for myself by eating right, getting plenty of yoga and exercise in, getting outdoors for walks or biking and sticking to a routine.
I think I thought that all of those things would keep me from the feelings of sadness or being overwhelmed that I’ve heard so many talk about. But it didn’t. Yesterday was Monday, and on Monday, new homeschooling assignments come out. These assignments aren’t too long or too difficult but they are hard to accomplish when you have 2 active boys that want to wrestle with each other to release some of their energy instead of using the time to do their school work.
I had to step back for a minute and realize that they are going through this too.
That their lives have been disrupted, they aren’t playing the sports that they enjoy, seeing their friends, missing the vacations that they had been looking forward to (and are still hopeful we will get to do at some point). I had to realize that as overwhelmed as I was feeling yesterday, that they might be feeling that way too.
This was an eye opener for me and a chance to remember and realize that we are all in this right now and that it is hard for each of us in our own way, that it is affecting us each differently and to respect those differences in our families, friends, and co-workers.
It’s also a great time to make sure that we are finding alternative ways connect with others- we are hardwired to need this connection.
So try to message with someone more, do zoom meetings with those you might have spent time out with, call someone and have a conversation- on the phone, or just text with others if you need a little connection pick me up.
Most of all, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
While we might not be able to see each other physically, we can be there as a support for one another. So ask those people, that love you and are missing you too, for what you need to help you get through this.
And if you are having a hard time and feel like you need someone to listen, know that I am here for you.
