Dear friend,
I’ve spoken with a lot of families who protested this weekend. And I’m so proud of them.
Standing up for your values takes courage, while modeling bravery and integrity for your kids.
I’ve also spoken with just as many families who wanted to protest but just… couldn’t do it.
You know what? I’m equally proud of them, too.
Because they knew their limits. Maybe one kid was sick. Or they’re navigating nap times. Or one parent just got laid off. Or it’s already been an absolutely unrelenting few weeks/months/years…
Whatever the reasons, these families assessed their ability in a realistic way and decided: We’ve got to rest. The most powerful way we can contribute right now is to pause, recover, and restore.
When facing uncertainty, balancing hard work with rest is essential.
—
On another note, it’s an absolutely glorious weekend here in Northern California. It’s wildflower season, and the California poppies are popping up everywhere.
Surrounded by so much natural beauty, it’s easy to pretend the world isn’t on fire.
Of course, the world is on fire, in obvious ways.
But, for moments at a time — while I’m admiring the poppies, or looking up at the trees, or listening to my toddler’s joyous giggle — it’s also not on fire.
—
Humans cannot operate in fight-or-flight mode all the time.
When we live only in anticipation, it takes a toll on our nervous system.
The antidote is present moment awareness (and, gasp, enjoyment!).
- Breathe through your nose. How does it feel?
- Where are your feet planted? How does that feel?
- Lying in bed, notice the softness of the sheets, the support of your pillow, the feeling of being supported, held up off the ground by your mattress.
We counter fight-or-flight with rest-and-recovery.
Yes, there’s a lot to do, a lot to fix, a lot to fight for — of course.
But for the most enjoyable rest-and-recovery, it definitely helps to have really nice sheets.
Sleep well,
Nora
