amongst thoughts and prayers
By all means, offer thoughts and prayers, but then think about what you need to do and then pray for the courage to do it.
Stephen Colbert
This past Monday my hometown of Santa Rosa was engulfed in flames, and to my knowledge fires in the area are still spreading. Thankfully my family and friends are safe, and by some miracle my house is one of a few still standing in our neighborhood. Many friends lost everything.
There is no doubt tragedy in this world; when it literally hits this close to home, the shock and heartbreak is unreal. Helplessness consumes me as I text amongst friends to check in, anxiously asking myself what to do, when I know all I can do right now is pray and wait.
Sitting with discomfort, meditating, breathing, or remaining as positive as possible in situations like these may seem next to impossible. Although I advise to be with ourselves in undesirable situations, taking my own advice as I wait to hear news this week seemed a bit unattainable.
I am, however, recognizing the importance of staying alert and open to hearing what I might not want to hear, so that my physical and mental body can remain strong for whatever comes next. I also overcame my indecisiveness in doing what I felt I needed to do and got a plane ticket home, even if it still uncertain what exactly I will do when I get there.
It is imperative we care for ourselves if we want to be there to care for others in times of devastation, whatever the magnitude. We must keep ourselves healthy on a daily basis in order to be prepared for when we might be needed to step up and show up.
Please take care of yourselves. Cherish your loved ones and your homes, however much either of them irritate you. Recognize the discomfort, feel the feelings when it feels safe to express them, and return to love as often as possible.
May we nourish ourselves so that we are well equipped to nourish others when needed. May we offer prayers, think about what we need to do, and then have the courage to do it.
To donate to Santa Rosa fire victims, check here or here. Updates posted here.
Read the newsletter for healthy seasonal bowl inspirations, my favorite new music, wellness happenings, and good vibes.
Photo with Aditi Shah by Renee Choi in NYC, wearing tops from Tie Dye All Day.
No Comments