As we come out of the pandemic and into what I have heard called an endemic (which “means that the disease is still around but that it’s at a level that is not causing significant disruption in our daily lives,” said Dr. Parodi, an infectious diseases physician) – trips away from it all have been on the rise. We are all individually and collectively trying to restart the flywheel and get our lives back – whatever that will turn out to mean.
It’s hard. We thought, or at least I did, that this part of the cycle of change would be easy, but in many ways it’s turning out to have its own set of big challenges. When I speak with clients and friends, everyone seems to be “out of gas,” running on empty and looking for support. That’s a challenge, of course, when needs are strong and supply is limited. The world has shifted on its axis, and it appears to be permanent. And so, we need to navigate new terrain, learning to create connections in the midst of hybrid work and life structures. Much of what we try won’t work, but if we can be patient, we’ll find the right path. And as we do, we will be better for it and so will our communities, our country, and our planet. We owe it to ourselves and others to not quit. Which brings me back to Memorial Day, established to honor those who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. People – men and women – often young, with their dreams ahead of them. Men and women who gave their lives for America and her ideals. It’s also a good day to remember their loved ones – wives, husbands, partners, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, grandparents, cousins, friends, and comrades. People alive today who grieve every day. And ancestors who died long ago – since our country was founded – with grief in their heart.
These days, we are becoming very good at fighting against each other. And this holiday – along with the Fourth of July – is a good day to recommit to fight for each other – particularly fighting for each other as it relates to the aspirational dreams of America. Debating to solve problems, not to disdain and dismiss our neighbors.
We are better than we are being led to believe. But if we aren’t mindful, we will become less than we and America and the world deserves and needs. Our fallen soldiers should know that we are committed to growing ever closer to achieving the ideal – a more perfect union. So, head to the beach or the mountains or to your local pool or out to the yard for a relaxing weekend. We all need it. And then on Monday, May 30th, close your eyes and picture just one of those who died in service and simply listen.
Take care.
