Down Days

With the arrival of February, we’re one month closer to spring here in the Northeast, and daylight is getting longer again. This past Wednesday (February 2nd) was Groundhog Day, which coincides with an ancient holiday celebrating the return of light. I’m so happy!

January hasn’t been an easy month for many of the women I serve. It’s been long for them: sickness, death, loss of jobs, chaos in our world. My heart hurts for those who are struggling and don’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. I wish I could do more to help. Sometimes it’s hard for me to accept that I’m not Wonder Woman who can save the world; that it’s not my job and some things are out of my control. Often, the best gift I can give is my presence. 

This past week, I, too, have felt “off.” Most of the time, I’m energized, positive and inspired, ready to take on the world. This week not so much. I’ve been feeling funky. When my daughter, Tiffany, who helps me edit this blog checked in about it, I wasn’t ready. I didn’t know what to write. Last week, I discussed truth, and so this week, I have to be honest with you: it’s been a hard week! 

I don’t enjoy feeling off; it feels out of character for me, it’s not who I am. Yet I’m giving myself permission to have some down time and sit with these feelings. I’m journaling about what I’m learning about myself as I navigate this experience. These are some of the questions I’m asking myself (courtesy of Valorie Burton):

• What am I looking forward to? It’s important to have something to look forward to. On Thursday, a friend and I went to a fabric store and out to lunch. Next week, I’m going to New York City to watch my grandson because my daughter is producing fashion shows for Fashion Week. I find the city energizing, and the change of scenery good.
• What’s my most important goal for today? It may be writing my blog, organizing my creative space, eating more healthily, or even taking a nap. I’ve learned not to overwhelm myself with too much so I can work through the process.
• What’s my biggest win today? Gratitude is important because no matter how my day is going, there is something to be thankful for. It can be something small or big, but it’s important to celebrate. For me today, it’s writing my blog.
• What did I learn today? The more I’m aware of my thoughts and feelings and acknowledge them, I’m growing. The more I learn, the more I can share with others.
• What will help me today? Walking in nature, reading, praying, more water, rest, exercise, creative activity, speaking with a trusted friend.

How do you traverse difficult days or hard weeks? Life has many ups and downs. How we choose to handle the “funky” times is important. We want to acknowledge our emotions so we can properly process them. 

I’m thankful for the women who pray for me, send me encouraging messages, or call me because God has impressed upon them to do so. I’ve learned that sometimes the “encourager” is the one who needs encouragement, and that’s okay. We all need to refuel from time to time. Do you have a support team? It’s important to listen to our hearts and minds, and be sensitive to and aware of the things going on in our lives. Sharing can help us grow and know we are not alone. Sharing with you has been therapeutic for me. Thank you for listening.

Please share in the comments how you handle your down days.