I sneak a peek at the news and the darkness spreads over me. It feels like a shadow, blocking out the sunlight and warmth I crave. Just when I think it can’t possibly get any worse, it does. How do I both stay informed and sane at the same time?
The sun was shining when I got to school this morning. I headed into my classroom and immediately got to work organizing materials for teaching. I looked up and saw my colleague pass by…and ran out after her to give her something.
That’s when the light caught my eye. The soft warmth of morning light caressed the yellow wildflowers that are a part of our landscaping. I couldn’t resist leaning in for a photo to try to capture that moment to carry with me throughout the day.
The light, my friend and her bright morning optimism, golden flowers aglow, and the warmth of the sun on my shoulders came together to create the perfect conditions to start my week.
Here’s to keeping the glow…or at least returning to the photo to remind myself not to dwell in the shadows.
What keeps your spirits up when things start to feel heavy?
Thinking Through My Lens 
I think you answered your own question. I also think it’s impossible to too informed and to handle all the news. That might sound like a paradox, but I think if you can pick one or two issues to contact your senators and representative about, that’s better than consuming lots of news and not contacting them. I hope that makes sense.
Last week, I saw a silly thing on social media that said that it really helps if you get up every day and tell yourself that you will see something AMAZING that day. I have tried it, and it does help me focus on those little moments that make things more bearable. I also agree with Glenda that focusing on just a couple of issues is good for the sanity.
I choose to focus on the things I can do and try to pay attention to nature. So much is out of my control, but I have been trying to look for the beauty.
It’s hard to stay positive when everything going on is horrible. I try to read less of the news, as I’d rather be a little ill-informed than a lot depressed. I think your focus on the beauty around you is perfect! 🙂 Love that photo!
I feel this post in every fiber of my being–from the downfall of that “peek” at the news to the glory of that golden light. I tell my husband that I’m giving myself whiplash these days, yanking myself from one extreme to the other, trying to find some balance. So, I have no answers to offer, but know that you’re definitely not alone in this one!
Many of us can connect. There are some days I don’t turn to the news but I know that’s not the answer. Keep finding the beauty and creating change in any way you can!