It seems as if we’ve hit the braking point
We are certainly caught in the gridlock of disturbing news and distressing world events these days. A continuing deadly pandemic, a divisive presidential election, societal unrest, increasing violence and a continuing feeling of isolation and sadness at living with so many restrictions all add to the traffic jam that has become our lives.
It seems that no matter where we try to navigate in this journey through 2020, we come up against dead ends, impassable roads and bridges to nowhere. Bottom line — we can’t seem to get anywhere. Perhaps it is time to reach your braking point. Yes, I said braking point.
It is time to put the brakes on these fruitless frustrations and try to find a more positive approach to surviving these negative times. It’s the point where you just say no to getting sucked into negative posts on social media, pointless discussions with fanatical friends with opposing ideals and blatant hatred or racism. Put the brakes on it all.
So, what are some possible ways to navigate the obstacles to happier times? Maybe it’s time to focus less on the route you travel and more on enjoying the scenery along the way.
There is beauty to be found everywhere, no matter where you are heading.
Beauty can lie in the colorful leaves on the trees that you pass by; the setting sun with its hues of bright pinks and oranges; the cool, crisp autumn air; the smell of autumn bonfires. This time of year is perfect to look for the beauty all around.
Each season has its highlights. Surprising as it is, we have now endured all four seasons in this span of pandemic life. The early days of March, when it all started, were still winter. We are now in fall. And in between, we went through spring and summer, all in the restrictions of our current world. I hope you were able to enjoy the seasonal beauty of each of them as they went by.
I think one of the best routes to navigate through hard times is through random and unexpected acts of kindness. As someone who works in the health field, my role has changed dramatically, sometimes on a daily basis. The most rewarding days for me are always the days when I can make a positive difference in someone else’s life or provide a happy surprise to make someone’s day.
And conversely, some of my
happiest times were when I was the recipient of someone else’s gesture of generosity. A note of appreciation, a piece of chocolate left on my desk, an inspirational saying or a phone call of encouragement. These all helped me cope during days that were challenging, to say the least.
Times like this can really bring out the best in us if we let them. Don’t succumb to the negative forces which seem to be determined to bring us down. Don’t give in to hatred or buy into mudslinging by anyone. Limit your exposure to negative reports, memes or advertising.
I have found that some days, the mute button on my remote control is my best friend. Caller ID on your phone can let you know when an incoming call is spam. Technology can help you put the brakes on the amount of ugliness that enters your home.
That is your braking point — the point where you stand to no longer put up with the negative forces. Make sure to reach your braking point before you reach your breaking point.
Choose beauty. Choose positivity. Choose kindness. Choose to be happy.