It’s getting kind of weird “out there”; so it might be time to wrap yourself up in Community and Nature, hunker down, and ride out the storm. At least that is what I decided on during my last semi-sleepless night as I pondered wild fires, injustices, and world affairs.
The question that keeps bubbling to the surface and demanding my attention is this: How do I move forward and add value in a good way? The answer that comes up time and time again is straightforward: Invest in the warmth of Community and balance yourself in Nature.
The community part is easy; for I’m located in Judique, a wonderful little seaside village in Nova Scotia, embracing (and being embraced by) all things Gaelic. This suits me fine since my ancestors hail from the barren and rocky shores of the Hebridean Isles in Scotland.
Finding my way …
The big change for me is that for the second time in my life, I have made the conscious choice to invest in “the community at large”. I’m rusty at it, stumbling a little, and laughing at myself a lot!
In recent years, most of my life revolved around the “community” of immediate family, extended family, and treasured friends from here, there and everywhere. But now, in the face of a pandemic, I realize that I need to widen my circle and start thinking about how to add value as part of a larger collective.
Five Observations …
1. One of the main themes I’ve experienced lately is that we all need to support and gain strength from each other. This is essential; and it is equally essential that we create and participate in small, mutually-supportive projects that validate and reinforce community spirit and a healthy “can do” attitude. The small ones allow everyone to experience the energizing “We can do it, feeling!”
2. The other theme I’ve noticed is we all need to take time to laugh, relax, and enjoy each other. For example I’m amazed at how many interesting, accomplished, and engaging people live in this little community … and oh, what fun stories they have to offer! One day, it occurred to me that visiting with my neighbours was far more interesting than Netflix or YouTube; plus, the stories always have a little lesson, moral, or encouragement woven into the fabric.
3. The timeless, healing qualities of “a cup of tea” cannot be under estimated; and when the conversation is really good, two cups are in order, as warmth, good cheer, and kinship flood the room. When served in fancy china cups, all the better.
4. I’ve eagerly observed the connective power of community dance. The pulses and taps help diminish daily worries and transport you to another place and time. Of course, a lot of the healthy hugs, hand contact, and fun twirls have been curtailed by the pandemic, but still, the uplifting energy of the music lives, nudging us all into a higher vibration and soothing our tired brows.
5. It is important to find your community; a body of people who might have varying perspectives, but share a common desire to work together for the betterment of all; people who will tackle little projects with gusto and understand what it means to give and take; people with a commitment and purpose that aligns with who you are on the inside (yep, on the inside; the real “you”).
Next Steps …
Just do it. Take a giant leap of faith and find your community. Hmm, do you remember the song “No Rain” by Blind Melon? Why not be the little tap dancing bumble bee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qVPNONdF58
Enjoy the day!
Mildred Lynn
PS – I’ll share observations about looking to Nature to help restore balance another time (… perhaps next week).