it's been awhile, and so much has changed
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Hello Courageous Hearts,
It has been a while since I have been here and so much has changed. Life as we knew it has completely turned upside down. Whoever thought just a few short weeks ago that we would be where we are today. My heart weighs heavy with all that is going on in the world, but what I have also witnessed are amazing acts of courage, kindness, and compassion. I feel that more than ever we need one another.
This time of “social distancing” has me hunkering down, appreciating what surrounds me, and seeking out new ways to connect. I feel blessed for technology and the way it is keeping us virtually together.
I have also been putting pen to paper. Taking time each day to document what is happening around me. Noting what is closing, how I am feeling, what I did that day. It feels good to get it down.
I am trying to move my body more often. Working from home has me sitting stagnant for hours on end leaving me feeling exhausted. But I have been starting each morning with a workout and trying to get in an afternoon run or walk. It feels good to move.
I have also been taking time to notice what is around me. Notice the small things that I would usually hurry past. Before this all began I was in a constant rush, rush state. Planning Girl Scout Meetings, going to events, working my 9-5 and also on creating my dreams. I had very little time to slow down and just be.
And now here I stand with all of you. With nowhere to go. Nowhere to be, except be home. And when I am not working I am trying to slow down the pace. Dustin I are cooking more meals together. Going for walks. Zoning out watching Netflix. We are on this rollercoaster ride of emotions together. Sometimes we are doing great, other times the weight of what is going on weighs heavy on my heart.
I am learning to be more compassionate. To not judge myself when I just want to crash on the couch and do nothing. But I am also enjoying connecting with others virtually. It is interesting how I feel more connected to the people I work with then I did when I was in the office. This common unknown bringing us together.
Here’s what I know in this moment:
We are all in this together.
I (and you) are not alone. Even if you are living alone. you are connected to this community. Please reach out if you are feeling lonely and know that we all feel that way at times.
We need each other now more than ever
Music makes me happy and lifts my spirits
Fresh air fills me up as well
It is necessary to reach out
It is ok to cry
It is also ok to laugh, be silly and have fun
What is it that you know right now in this moment? I encourage you to write them down so that when you are lost you can turn to that list and be reminded.
One of the things I have been asking myself in the wake of this is “what can I do to help?” “How can I serve?” And although I can’t do much this is what I can do.
I can continue to bring people together through the written word. I will be hosting another round of the Love Notes Postcard Project, sooner than the original expected mid-April date.
We will begin Sunday, March 29th
This round will be a little different. You will be able to join in the old fashion way by sending physical postcards plus there is an option to participate that is purely digital.
The Love Notes Postcard Project is a free, three-week project that encourages individuals to connect through snail mail (and now email). I will match you up with another participant in the group and each Sunday you will receive a writing prompt so that you have a jumping-off point for what to share with your partner.
This global project brings people together and encourages connection through the written word. I have been hosting this project for about seven years and have been blown away by the friendships that have been made. and the kindness that has been shared. Sign up to be a part of this upcoming round and spread a little bit of joy and light during this dark time.
I can also bring people together virtually to connect, meditate, write, and simply be with one another. I have hosted two online gatherings recently and am so grateful for the individuals who showed up. It is wonderful to see one another even if only through the screen.
My next Community Circle is Monday, March 23rd from 8-9pm EST
I am craving simplicity and look forward to showing up here more often. This is my virtual front porch. I invite you to grab a cup of coffee and settle in. I look forward to getting to connecting with you and walking together on this journey of life.
Sending so much love to all of you!
Xoxo
Jennifer
let’s be friends on instagram :: @jbelthoff
