Where do we go from here...

As the year began to fade into the depths of memory and 2020 was swiftly drawing to a close, I found myself pulling over to the side of the road during my journey back to the Pacific Northwest. It was a spontaneous decision, a brief pause to relish the breathtaking beauty of the sunset that painted the sky in vivid hues of orange, pink, and purple somewhere along the Arizona/Nevada border. The dramatic landscape was a perfect backdrop for a snapshot, a moment frozen in time that contrasted sharply with the chaos of the world around me. As I stood there, the cool desert air brushed against my skin, and I took a deep breath, allowing myself a moment of reflection amidst the turmoil of the year. In that fleeting minute, I contemplated the uncertain future that lay ahead, both for myself and for the world at large. The pandemic had reshaped our lives in ways we could never have imagined, forcing us into isolation and redefining our interactions. The country was deeply polarized, with divisions growing wider due to political envy and animosity that seemed to permeate every conversation. The presidential campaign, which had dragged on far longer than anyone anticipated, felt like a never-ending cycle of debates and advertisements that did little to heal the rifts between us. It was a time marked by anxiety and uncertainty, where the very fabric of society felt frayed at the edges. The nation had made its choice, and much like in any contest where there emerges a victor and a vanquished, the aftermath left an indelible mark on the collective psyche. The loser, in this case, had to grapple with the reality of defeat, to accept it, and to ponder what the future held. I began to reflect on my own experiences as an ex-athlete, where the sting of losing was all too familiar. Losing is a bitter pill to swallow; it is an experience filled with disappointment and frustration. Yet, I recognized that the only path forward was to embrace the lessons learned and to look ahead, rather than dwelling on what could have been. However, despite this understanding, I couldn't shake the feeling of melancholy that lingered, much like a child who has been told no at the ice cream truck, longing for something sweet and comforting that was just out of reach. The agony of defeat, both personal and collective, weighed heavily on my heart as I pondered the challenges that lay ahead. Would we find a way to heal the divisions that had formed? Would we emerge from this tumultuous year stronger and more united, or would we continue to fracture under the weight of our differences? These questions swirled in my mind as I stood there, taking in the beauty of the sunset, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is still light to be found if we are willing to look for it.

So, here my mom and i are driving because that is what seemed safe and also needed to air out the much needed drive and get away during the US worst pandemic since the Spanish flu of 1912. We listened to Barack's new book, and it was giving me strength and she regaining hers again and we discussed how sad things had become from families fighting and lashing out to parades about who was more American or not (while I remind people, you're American if you live in north/south/central America).

This battle and fight is still rampant some five years later, echoing the struggles that began in December of 2020. While we may no longer drive that roadway, a poignant reminder of the turmoil that once surrounded us, the reality is that countless wars and conflicts have erupted, not only overseas but also within our own borders here in the Americas. The landscape of our society has been transformed, as families are being torn apart by forces beyond their control, leading to heartbreak and disarray. The nation, which was already grappling with divisions, has become even more fragmented, with ideological rifts widening and communities feeling increasingly isolated from one another. The conflicts manifest in various forms, from political strife and social unrest to economic disparities that create a sense of desperation among many. Issues such as immigration, racial inequality, and economic instability have fueled tensions, making it difficult for people to find common ground. The once unifying threads of community and shared identity have frayed, leaving many feeling alienated and disenfranchised. In this environment, the effects of these battles are felt deeply within families. Parents are separated from children, loved ones are displaced, and the emotional toll is staggering. The pain of separation and the struggle for survival often overshadow the hope for a better future. As we reflect on these ongoing conflicts, it becomes clear that the fight is not merely a distant issue but a pressing reality that affects the very fabric of our society. The need for healing and reconciliation has never been more urgent as we seek to mend the divisions and forge a path toward unity.

So, how do we reconcile our feelings and protect the most important parts of our mental health, I ask? This question weighs heavily on many individuals, particularly during challenging times. Many of the answers to the questions swirling in my mind came from a thought-provoking talk I delivered at a college in California just yesterday. In that session, I focused on the critical topic of protecting mental health when faced with a crisis. It is essential to acknowledge that for many, a crisis is not a uniform experience; rather, it is felt differently by each individual and manifests in various ways within the body. The truth is, no two experiences of crisis are the same, and understanding this diversity is key to developing effective coping strategies. To navigate these tumultuous waters, it is vital to create a personalized plan that outlines the calming techniques that have proven effective for you in the past. Reflect on moments when you successfully managed stress or anxiety, and take note of the strategies that brought you relief. This could include practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or even engaging in creative outlets like writing or painting. By having a clear plan in place, you can more readily access these techniques when you find yourself in a state of crisis. Another crucial aspect of maintaining mental health during difficult times is the importance of staying connected with others. Often, when the world feels overwhelming, or when anxiety and stress begin to take over, we may have a tendency to isolate ourselves from those who care about us. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and despair. Therefore, it is essential to make an effort to check in with friends or family members regularly. Share your feelings and experiences with them; you might find that they can relate to what you’re going through or even offer valuable insights. Open communication can foster a sense of community and support, reminding you that you are not alone in your struggles. Engaging in physical activity is another powerful way to bolster your mental health. Whether it involves going for a brisk walk, joining a local sports team, or participating in community events, getting your body moving can have profound effects on your overall well-being. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can help alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. Additionally, being active in your community not only benefits your mental health but also strengthens your social connections, creating a network of support that can be invaluable during tough times. Lastly, it is crucial to recognize that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you find yourself struggling and in need of assistance, do not hesitate to ask for help. There are numerous resources available, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, who are well-equipped to guide you through your challenges. Sometimes, simply using your voice to express your needs can be the very thing that saves you from descending into despair. Remember, reaching out for support is a proactive step towards healing and should be embraced as part of your journey to mental wellness. By taking these steps, you can better protect your mental health and navigate the complexities of life with greater resilience.

Mas alla