Hey Sis, How Are You – For REAL?
How many times over the summer or doing this odd season were you asked: how are you doing? How did you respond, with a typical, “I’m fine,” or were you able to let the one asking that in some respects you were not OK? These are days where we need to be honest with ourselves about how we are doing.
We need to pay close attention to our emotional, mental, spiritual and physical states. I’m quite sure I don’t have to mention the reasons why. Pandemic, once-in-a-lifetime history making days or not, babies still cry for food. Workplaces still want the work completed. Homes still have to get cleaned. Hair still needs to get done (or at least combed).
One of the ways to stay sane and settled in these days is to prioritize your rest and health. You HAVE to make it a priority. NO-THING is getting done if you are not OK. These times are not to be messed with. For weeks over the summer I stopped doing anything I didn’t have to. Pressures built up in every part of me and I had to sit down or take walks. And when thoughts of all the things I shoulda’ been doing tried to guilt-shame me into doing “something,” I recognized them for the sabotagers they are and stayed at the things that kept my mind and heart at peace and made me smile. Being filled with what gives you peace and joy is THE ONLY WAY you can continue doing, whatever it is you “have” and want to do.
Heeding others’ demands, doing out of habit instead of your heart, and giving yourself projects to do because you can’t sit still will wear you out. It feels really good to prioritize the people you know you are supposed to love and care for and the work you know you are supposed to do. Others (and you) may be surprised when you reply with a “I cannot,” or, “Perhaps another time, I cannot right now.” But, your family, your friends, the world, need you to prioritize and guard the health of your heart and mind.
So, hey my sister, how are you?
Stay encouraged.
Keep the faith.
God sees you.
You were born to live, love and lead well. ♥️
