A colleague of mine from medical school was the third contestant eliminated from a popular reality show, noted for his “poor decisions.” He claimed he was just like the host, only younger and with better hair.
The world seems to be spiraling into chaos. How can I possibly make sense of this for my children?
It’s winter now, yet my thoughts drift to summer—specifically to sleepaway camp, where kids either struggle with constipation or diarrhea. The camp nurse will attest to this; it’s the primary reason for her visits, stemming from the body’s attempt to process an unhealthy diet of sugary cereals, pancakes, fried foods, and olives. Such imbalances can have dire consequences.
During these dark days in December, as I sip tea instead of sugary drinks and opt for spinach salads over junk food, I realize that both physical and mental health matter. While my body can regain balance, my spirit feels heavy. If I give too little, everything crumbles; if I give too much, I risk losing myself.
My optimism feels frayed. It’s increasingly difficult to find clarity amidst the chaos. Each headline brings more distress: the devastation in Ukraine, the tragic fire in California, violent attacks in public spaces, and the ongoing environmental crisis. The news is relentless. Just last week, the Word of the Year was declared “surreal,” and the headlines keep rolling in—about cyber threats to our democracy and horrific acts of violence abroad.
How do I process this overwhelming horror without losing my sanity? I find it hard to think about family meals without picturing the plight of starving children in refugee camps. My empathy runs deep, and it’s challenging to find a balance.
People offer various solutions: Reach out to your representatives, donate here, attend that rally, sign this petition. While those are important actions, I need to focus on one thing: Rising to meet each day.
The most I can do right now is to resist hitting the snooze button, waking a few moments earlier to breathe deeply and prepare for the challenges ahead. I practice this in my clinic each day and around the dinner table at night.
Can we agree to stay open-eyed, knowing that even the smallest act of kindness can spark hope? My children can show me their understanding through simple actions, like getting dressed independently. If they demonstrate initiative, I will believe in a brighter future. I’ll brew my coffee, prepare a quick breakfast, and we’ll make plans for the day. “Today holds promise,” I’ll tell them cheerfully. They will believe me because I’m their mother, and I’ll try to embrace that belief myself.
Then, I’ll wrap them in a hug.
Rising each morning is an act of courage, just as noble as any other. When we each show our bravery, dedicating ourselves to the day and to one another, we can create positive change together. Love can be our greatest product, and peace our ultimate goal. I have faith that we can thrive.
For more insights on navigating these times, check out this post on intracervicalinsemination.com. And if you’re considering starting a family, visit Make a Mom for a comprehensive guide on home insemination. Additionally, Healthline offers excellent resources on pregnancy and related topics.
Summary
In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, embracing small acts of courage and compassion can lead to hope and resilience. Rising each day is a powerful statement, especially when we commit to supporting one another through challenging times.