Moments of Mindfulness: YES? NO? MAYBE?

I was shocked this week to hear a media personality choose to respond to the devastating number of coronavirus deaths among the elderly with these words, “Well, they were on their way out anyway.”

My anger jumped up and screamed at the TV talking head. My behavior reminded me that the pandemic not only steals lives, and that if I am not careful, it can also pierce my peace. I escaped the moment and remembered this reality:

YES, we are in this crisis together.

NO, our responses to it are not and will not be the same.

However, MAYBE if we can live beyond our words, manage our fear of the unknown, accept our need for interdependence, and tolerate our perfect imperfections, we can survive to be better than before.

It has been cautioned that when the world seems to be crumbling, there is also immense opportunity. But we must be willing to do some tough things. We must be ready to change our perspective and our response. There’s no doubt that extreme circumstances test our bravery, determination, and inner strength.

This is our life, and it is governed by our choices. May our daily choices preach louder than our lips. May our inner sense of satisfaction be our noise in the end.

“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.”― J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Remember you are amazing just as you are, wash your hands, wear your masks, and treat yourself like someone you love.

    Until next time, remember,

• You are not alone.

• You are not your circumstances.

• You have everything within you to live a purpose-filled life.