While reading the paper this weekend, a few thoughts dawned on me that I felt worth sharing if for no other reason than possibly providing a distraction during these troubled times and giving me an outlet to help me deal with what is going on.
Let me start with me. While that may seem selfish at first pass, I genuinely believe it isn’t. One thing has become very evident to me during the past few weeks. If we as individuals do not first take care of ourselves, it becomes challenging, if not impossible, for us to take of others. Be it mentally, physically, financially, spiritually, or doing what brings you joy, be sure to take the time to do what keeps you grounded and in a position to be there for others. Being there for others during this time is more critical than it ever has been in most of our lifetimes. The current situation has created a time of shared suffering, and for us to get through, it will require shared sacrifices. With that said, I like writing. I do realize my writing may need some work; however, it brings me joy and helps me deal with things in a manner that clears my head. Based on that and a few other factors expect to see more from regular posts from me on our social media channels.
Next, I want to talk about newspapers and reading in general. In today’s media-driven world that includes virtual sound bites distribute through hundreds of outlets, it is easy to get overwhelmed with surface-based statements that do not tell the whole story. This is not a statement about media bias; it is the reality that a 30-minute newscast will never provide you the depth of a story that you would read in a newspaper or other media source. Truthfully the news we hear on TV and Internet broadcasts is disheartening and scary. Yet, after reading the paper this morning, I felt good about things. The ability to read the whole story and not just the headlines provided a comprehensive view while allowing me to process what I was reading at my pace and in a way that was meaningful to me. Based on that, I still have concerns about where we are today, what tomorrow will bring, yet I have a sense of hope that is deeper and more encouraging than what I feel after watching the news on TV or listening to it through other channels.
In short, take care of yourself so you can take of others and don’t believe everything you see and hear. Take the time to read the whole story and form your own opinions and beliefs. Both of these actions will make you feel better and shed light on what is admittingly a dark chapter of our lives.
Be safe, be kind, and make good choices.
