DAY 45

"So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is... fear itself -nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts..." These words were spoken in 1933 by Franklin D. Roosevelt in his inaugural address. This wisdom is just as relevant today as it was then. How have we come to be so afraid of our family members and neighbors? Social distancing in the name of physical health and safety are threatening to compromise the mental health of millions. I have spoken to people who are terrified when they go out into their communities for groceries, some who fear that they will never feel safe leaving home again.

Marianne Williamson has much to say about fear vs. love. 'The world, as we perceive it, is dominated by a thought system based on fear. Darkness is merely the absence of light and when you turn on the light, the darkness is gone'  I learned from her many years ago that every action and thought that we have is either based in fear or love. I have given much consideration to this over the last several weeks. It is certainly an act of love to stay at home in order to protect ourselves and those we love. It is fear that causes us to avoid any and all contact with others, to obsessively Clorox wipe our groceries or to wear a mask when you are walking down a mostly deserted street. The lack of clear direction from our leaders we are left with no choice but to make our own informed and thoughtful decisions regarding who we come in contact with, and what level of risk is just too much.

Critical thinking is a valuable tool in keeping fear at a distance. I remind myself that fears are not facts. I do not watch the news on t.v. and am selective about what I do read and listen to. I question everything. I make every effort to act out of love and to let my fears sit in a corner until they fade. I am only able to do this after years of practice.

It was a beautiful Spring day, sun shining and in the 60's. Miss Nine and I went for a bike ride with some neighbors. I worked in the yard and even managed to get College Boy out of the house. That in itself is no small accomplishment!