It’s been a challenging last few weeks, starting with two deaths. The first loss was the spouse of a friend and client. While she lived with health challenges, she was a fighter and committed to living a full life. Watching her fall into sickness and then meet her end was terrible and sad.
The second was my aunt who was the most optimistic person I’ve ever met. Although she’d battled cancer (this was her third time), she never lost her sense of humor and care for my uncle, her two children, four grandchildren and everyone who was in her orbit.
As if that wasn’t enough, my successor decided to change the office to virtual and I’ve spent the last few weeks dismantling my office and toting things home. Twenty-plus years of creation came to an abrupt end and felt like another death.
The cherry on the sundae is contracting COVID. I had managed to escape up until now, although I pronounced readily that it’s a matter of “when” and not “if”. My symptoms are extremely mild (no worse than a head cold), but it’s caused me to miss two rehearsals and I feel kind of trapped.
Regardless of the challenges, I am focusing on supporting others who are dealing with losses, COVID and struggles. Turning my energy outward is my go-to remedy when faced with sadness, worry or struggles.
On top of that, I have my daughter, who dropped off some over-the-counter meds, and I got to see the smiling face of my 6-year-old granddaughter. It wasn’t as good as smothering her with hugs and kisses, but for now, seeing her was the best remedy.
