Are you experiencing anxiety?
There are many many people feeling unsettled in light of the recent US election...
many of them are north of the border
here where I live,
in Canada.
I refuse to subscribe to the constant bombardment of the media...
I am not a news junkie,
it affects me in a negative way
that I often find crippling...
Limiting exposure to negativity is a self preservation technique that I have had to employ over much of my adult life...
if I did not avert my eyes
occasionally to the horrors in our world
I would never sleep a wink at night.
I am not putting my head in the sand,
one cannot live in a society and not be informed...
but we must listen to our hearts
and decide just how much we can absorb and tolerate and still function.
Nature is a beautiful and rich sanctuary
that feeds my soul.
Seeking small and simple things of beauty provide me with moments of Joy.
I wonder what lies ahead on this journey...
uncertainty can fill us with fear.
Fear that can stop us from living a full life
that same fear can poison our spirit
paralyzing us.
Some will find taking action will help them...
others will hold home, family and friends close.
What will you choose to do?
How are you coping?
Today in this time of uncertainty,
Embracing the moment...
living mindfully
savouring the beauty in nature
will help keep me stay focused on living a joyful life.
Just this one simple thing
is enough to help me maintain my perspective
from spiralling down the rabbit hole.
~ Be Well and Be Kind ~
65 comments:
As a. US citizen, I am sick at heart, sick to my stomach and horrified at the divisions in my country. Please keep us all in your thoughts.
How we as a nation could have decided on such a disastrous course is shocking. Anyone that knows anything about history has reason to be vastly disturbed. We take hope and comfort in our Canadian neighbors their kind thoughts and concerns.
Hmm- well I completely agree with self-care, and good thoughts and deed for our friends and neighbours in the US, I also believe that this is not a "US problem". It's a global problem, and I am sick of hearing people say "oh well, Hillary is a crook and a liar, or Americans are crazy, etc." If we're not speaking out against misogyny, racism, homophobia and xenophobia, we're actually not standing for what's right and true and good in this interconnected world we live in.
I am thrilled with the election results and turning a blind eye to the harsh, negative statements put out by the Hillary supporters who claim to be tolerant. I worked in my garden today to get it ready for winter. Don't forget that half of the USA voted for Trump, so it's not universal despair.
I went to sleep on election night believing the media that it would be a win for Clinton. I determined to wake up in a peaceful state of mind anyway. At 4:45, I woke & turned on my radio to discover to my GREAT surprise and pleasure that Mr. Trump is our President Elect. I have decided not to feel guilty that I am relieved at the outcome. I enjoyed the day and went about it with rekindled hope.
Amen sister.
This is not a political blog - and it turns out that all life is actually small "p" political. As people, we are either standing up for what's right, staying silent or actively promoting what's wrong - promulgating or supporting discrimination, hate, violence, disdain against your fellow citizens is wrong and there is no peace in it.
So I sincerely hope that you will actively work to ensure that Mr. Trump promotes the good of all Americans and all citizens of the world as is only fitting for the President, and the citizens, of one of the most powerful nations on earth. Take some peace in that - speaking right and doing right, not just for those who look/act like you, but for all.
Leslie-thank you for weighing in. I felt disheartened and sick about the results. And I thought we were better than this. I was wrong.
Keep praying that the anxiety many of us feel, this divisiveness that plagues us will come to an end. If the President-elect can accomplish this, then bless him. Right now,I am not hopeful.
From my point of view, this was a "change" election. I am hopeful that the changes will be mainly positive and that the United States will move out of the malaise that has characterized the last several years.
I could not agree more!! We need to be selective of the Media outpourings. I am in Sydney, so not directly effected, but still...... I posted on FaceBook that I intended to retire from the real world...Listen to my music, read my books, cuddle the cat and tend my garden( even if it is only a few pots on my balcony). I am trying to console my FB Friends by posting a daily photo of roses.
GOBSMACKED!
I think that it is important that everyone takes a role in making our world a better and happier place...
some immediate thoughts are to practise the golden rule, do good work, help when and where you can, stand up to injustice, get involved, model to the younger generations what be a good citizen looks like and be kind and generous...
We are all in this world together...and with technology today we are able to see the plight of the poor, and those suffering in other countries and we must help when and where we can...
I refuse to take a pessimistic view...perhaps I am naive, but I have to live in hope.
There are numerous global problems...
and we all play a role as citizens living on this planet.
Kathy I was not insinuating there was universal despair...
I opted to use the election as an example of how the media can bombard us with too much negativity.
Good and Happy News does not sell papers or increase TV ratings...
I do not tolerate media overload without it affecting my well being...
I need to be careful not to watch too much or I lose sleep.
Sounds like you have the ability to turn off your mind after watching the news without it negatively affecting your sleep.
Thank you for your kind words. I live on Long Island NY and grew up in NJ ... I have friends that were in Philly and NYC this week at Clinton rally's and friends that bought red Trump hats and had parties. I never thought much of him myself over the years and I am surprised by the outcome . I will take president Obama's words to heart though and hope for the best. Cori
Thank you for your calming words. They are what we need right now. I am an outsider to this election but a woman, a migrant and a believer in equality.
What is even more jarring about the new president, aside from all the issues that the voting public were fully informed about prior to the election is the jarring contrast this new First Family will be to the outgoing Obamas. While many could fault the politics, none could fault their grace, poise and dignity.
SSG xxx
I cling to the hope that all will be well...
world peace sounds like a lofty goal but one that we should all have in our hearts.
Fine words Dore!
"Speaking right and doing right, not just for those who look/act like you but for all"
It will be interesting to see what happens...
hope that you can find some peace and take things a day at a time.
I cannot comment specifically on the US political system.
Constant media coverage creates unnecessary anxiety...
I wonder how many people like myself have to tune it out.
I have to do the same kind of things...
so many people out there are totally overwhelmed.
Hope for the best and I agree that we all need to be positive...
for our well being, our friends, and the impressionable young ones in our family.
I am an outsider too.
The media has ramped up and kept up the coverage so that many people are in a state of high alert and frantic.
Grace, dignity, manners, and poise are all important qualities for any person in the public eye and particularly our leaders.
Millions of strong, independent-thinking women who are tired of our Constitution being stomped on voted for President-elect Trump. Please celebrate with us.
I am with you on avoiding the consumption of too much media. I've just decided to accept and find the good. I'm so glad it's over and am looking forward to people putting aside their disagreements. Probably won't happen but whatever. I won't be in any more political arguments! Lovely photos!
I'm happy with the results as well, and don't feel that I have to defend my feelings. No one party held the monopoly on divisiveness and meanness, contrary to what the media wants you to believe.
I think some of your readers who don't agree with the election results will just have to try to have an open mind, just as I did in 2008 and 2012.
Maman and I just returned from LaConner. We always find the American people friendly and
enthusiastic. We overheard various reactions to the election but as Canadians, we don't really understand many of the issues. We walked in the sunshine, remembered past days and bought a few Christmas gifts. The people have made their choice and the world needs to accept it. In our own lives, we can strive to be accepting and supportive of others and to
approach the future with a positive outlook.
Like you I have to look away from the news as it is so depressing lately. Not that it all needs to be kittens and rainbows, but I find that if I skip it for a few days I can choose to do other things with my time and have a more enjoyable week.
We did hear that searches from America about how to emigrate to New Zealand had risen by 432% after the election.
Julie Q
I was unhappy when Bush was elected, but certainly kept an open mind. I supported him although I would have preferred another president.
Trump is beyond the pale, something wholly unlike any other. If it had been a vote for another republican candidate I could understand, but not for this man.
I of course will continue to support our country, pay my taxes without complaining, but I have lost faith in my fellow Americans. I hope that I am proved wrong.
Leslie,your words are kind and wise,as always. I admire the choices you've made, because they show the way to conscious decision to live a peaceful and a happy life,a comfort zone as the base.
I do,or have decided to do,the same. The only person one could change is oneself,living and showing good, right, love,kindness,hope,faith.
When I'm disappointed,I seek comfort in some wise person's words:
"Every man is guilty of all the good he did not do"
So,life is going on,let's turn around,starting from ourselfs,our family,our friends and neighbours-help if we can,say or do something to make world a better place."Dare to think for yourself" and"let us cultivate our garden"
Last days make me think intensively about "Candide"
Dottoressa
2million more people voted for hillary over Donald. Is it democracy when some peoples votes count for more than others ?
What beautiful, tender and gentle pictures you share today, which do indeed feed my soul. The holly leaves and berries, symbol of Christmas remind us of the season. Your message is very timely: look to the good, and avoid negativity. We discussed this at my ladies choir today, reminding ourselves that no matter what may happen, we can always make music to sooth and uplift our souls.
Since retirement and being home I have found that I need to be very disciplined about the media deluge from all quarters. My TV died suddenly about a month ago - and while I still find it odd not to have the constant chatter in the background, I'm getting used to it and even enjoying the quiet. I have my laptop for music, news and TV/Movie viewing - but it's much more on my terms and it's no longer constant. I have resolved to check emails and some blogs in the morning, I look at a couple of news sites to see what is happening in the world today (but really the hourly news updates on the classical music radio stn. I listen to provides enough) and then turn it off. I do a bit of housework - I get out for a morning walk & take care of any errands/shopping that needs done - and then I work on my puzzles and read if I'm not out meeting friends. I restrict more blog reading and TV/Movie viewing to the evenings (and get to bed at a reasonable hour). It is taking some effort to get into this routine but I already notice that I am sleeping even better than before. It's all a matter of balance - but so far I've not rushed out to buy a new TV!
The electoral college was created so New York and Los Angeles don't get to select our President every election. It gives credence to "middle" America where the population is not as dense, but just as important -- the agriculture, mining, and steel industries should have a say in our elections. Without the electoral college, candidates would not even need to campaign in those states.
Finding the positive things in our daily lives is healthy...
an attitude of gratitude has had a profound effect on my life.
Your getaway sounds like a lovely mix of activities and such a wonderful opportunity to share time with your maman.
Oh my goodness 432% is a lot of interest...our darling daughter is on her honeymoon in NZ right now and has been sending us pictures and I can see why people love it there...the natural beauty and pristine landscape is very enticing!
Those quotes are great! I like the one about everyman is guilty of all the good he did not do....it reminds me that I could and can always do more to help.
Thank you for sharing them with us today Dottoressa.
The pictures were taken on the golf course and chip trail at Cedar Hill....a lovely spot to walk. Song is a powerful healer and I love to hear a choir sing, especially uplifting in times of trouble...Hallelujah comes to mind.
If our Tv broke I know that Mr. HB would rush out and buy a new one! I could easily live without it...might miss PBS and a few series on Netflix but I never turn it on during the day...it only gets turned on when Mr. Hb comes home from work!
I have lots to occupy me here...lately I have been knitting up a storm!
For the first time in 8 years I am not afraid and have hope.
Strange times on both sides of the Atlantic. I worry for our children and grandchildren in these tumultuous times with so much hate and aggression. Time to consider gentler and peaceful things. Will mankind never learn? I do think the media in all its forms had much to answer for.
I am not shocked but deeply troubled by the election results. I will be at a Thanksgiving table soon with loved ones who feel differently than me. In preparation I have avoided face book and instagram. I am hoping for and practising equanimity. I am seeking beauty in my surroundings and for nding comfort from gentle friends like you. May peace prevail.
I have a list of about 15 to 20 blogs that I enjoy reading on an almost daily basis, yours included. For the most part, the blogs I read are similar to yours, i.e., about house and home, travel, gardening, and books in particular. I also enjoy sometimes putting in my two cents worth by way of comments. On a few occasions, however, I have seen a blogger out of the blue get a bee in her bonnet and go off on a political rant that seems to me to be totally uncalled for, considering the blogger's usual pleasant posts. Such behavior completely turns me off, and in turn, no matter how much I may have liked that person's blog, I delete it. That happened again this week concerning an Instagram site and I immediately deleted the Instagram posts after some remarks were made that were highly insulting to me as a reader/viewer, a woman, an American citizen and as a voter. It is most unbecoming in my opinion when a person cannot control their bitterness when things do not go to suit them and they feel they must air those feelings to the world in a venue that is for the most part fun. When the rants and insulting remarks fly, so do I. I enjoy reading your blog, so keep up the pleasant news from your beautiful part of the world.
I actually don't believe those words go together - strong women don't support men who degrade them with words and actions. This is not about a Republican President winning - if Trump were a President-elect like so many who have run and been elected before him, fair enough.
The facts, and yes, they are facts as they are all on record, are that he has acted in a way never before seen in American politics under the great banner of "changing a rigged system".
What change is it when a man openly demeans women in the most insulting terms, harasses women on Twitter, brags about his conquests in the most uncouth language, and generally conducts himself in a way that is actually not becoming for any man, let alone one who will soon be leader of our country. As Barbara Kingsolver said so eloquently...Donald Trump "has no political experience, a famously childish temperament, no interest in educating himself on any subject, a manifest record of shortchanging employees, bankrupting businesses, cheating on wives, dodging taxes and serving absolutely no one but himself. His mission is to elevate the self-regard of some Americans by degrading many others, including Muslims, Mexican immigrants, people with disabilities, residents of African-American communities, women he finds beautiful and women he does not....No one really imagines Donald Trump applying himself to the disciplines of the presidency, staying up late reading reams of legislation, instead of firing off juvenile tweets...If anyone still doubts that the inexperienced man gets promoted ahead of the qualified woman, you can wake up now."
My own prediction is that Trump will either resign or be ejected from the office he is so clearly unfit to hold.
Not half of the USA. Half of those who voted. Unfortunately, more voted for Hillary than Trump, and even more didn't vote at all.
I'm devastated and angry about the results. But, I cope by preparing to fight. I have skills, I will figure out how to use them in service of my beliefs.
This is exactly what I have been pondering...is the media responsible for our fears?
I want to subscribe to good works, kindness and be proactive in our local community...am I being old fashioned?
Is it possible that women can unite and bring about a possible change that is significant and lasting...and gentle at the same time?
Becky...I am your forever friend....never doubt that I will be by your side.
In peace...in love and we have a history with our shared experiences at school!
Enjoy Thanksgiving with your family in the US and let's plan to have lunch when you return and get the Provence plans rolling!
My blog is not political...
it is personal and I comment on things in my everyday round...I hope that my audience appreciates that I opt for peace, beauty and the simple joys.
I hope that you will find comfort in action...
life can throw us curve balls and we have to react.
I need to find a quiet place to feel safe amidst all this media overload...
so I am choosing to tune out for a wee bit and just knit!
one day at a time.
Becky- I did the same and will be in the same Thanksgiving situation as you. Hopefully, I will have regained my equanimity by then. I truly feel that what we are feeling is not a case of sour grapes, but distress about the person. And while we don't have to agree with his followers, we do accept the outcome. So far, some good things have come out of this for me. I cleaned up my Facebook account. I didn't unfriend anyone, but unfollowed some who incessantly post and with whom I am not close. I organized whose posts I want to receive first in my feed. I vowed to finally volunteer at the Refugee center and to live my truth. God bless, and at this Thanksgiving, lets be thankful that we can express these sentiments and be free.
We can try.
I hope you didn't think I was implying that your blog was political and/or had contained any remarks that were politically offensive to me. That was not my intent. I apologize if you took it that way. Like you and some of your other readers who have commented, I intend to keep on with the things that I enjoy doing and that make me happy in my daily life.
Thank you for this beautiful and comforting post. I wish I had logged on earlier. Thanks again for your gentle insight. Hugs!
Thank you for understanding. Have a happy Thanksgiving.
I think I recall Hillary Clinton degrading more than a few women as well. The DNC chose to give her a pass on so many things and keep out other candidates. I blame the Democrat Party more than any segment of the population.
I was unhappy with the Republican candidate as well. So strange again that the process failed. So obviously, I blame the process.
To my amazement, the media is still at it with their polling questions and surveys. They did our country no service. Are they not a little embarrassed today?
Instead of turning on each other, perhaps we should direct our ire at our two parties and the media. in this political season, they were all corrupt. Now it will be up to the nation to pull together. Will we learn any lessons from this ?
I feel certain the media is to blame. I think they are playing a role in the rioting now. They are still polling, even tonight.
The media loves chaos. They're deflated when the hurricane doesn't strengthen and make landfall. They have a constant need to make themselves relevant.
I live in Britain. Having woken up to Brexit I am sad to say I wasn't entirely surprised by the US election outcome. Living abroad has given me a different perspective to many of my family and old friends. I don't discuss politics or religion with them (I tease them,saying if they want to talk about those, then we have to talk about sex as well, which generally scares them and we move to safer subjects.)
I've been thinking about what matters to me, how I think things need to change. I will be pulling out my check (cheque?)book each month over the next four years and putting my money where I think it might do some good. As a US citizen I pay tax on my worldwide income (only the US, tbe Phillipines & Eritrea have citizen based tax). I have never resented paying tax, seeing it as a citizen's responsibility. However I am now thinking that the amount I paid in tax last year is a good starting point for how much I want to be donating next year.
Rather than wring my hands (and yes, I do worry about the world), I want my anger to move me to act. Making these plans is helping me to feel more positive.
I'm with Lisa, devastated and angry and ready to help protect and fight for the things I believe are the most vulnerable areas that our new administration might damage. Oddly, I had a lot of anxiety before the election, but it's been replaced by these other emotions.
Taking action in causes that are important and those which you are passionate about is a healthy way to make a difference...you are not alone.
Take care Bonnie...
I think there is a quote that "Actions speak louder than words..."
Positive thinking and positive actions, doing good deeds is a healthy approach ...good luck.
Me too!
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