It's Rough Out There

And a meditation to help you stay steady when things go askew.

Hello there.

It’s rough out there. As if it isn’t enough to be dealing with the distressing realities we’re facing, people with platforms large and small are exploiting social media and the divisive moment, causing fear, confusion, hate, and in some cases, violence.

Stress levels are at an all-time high. Loneliness is epidemic. Our well-being is at risk.

Photo by Milin John

I practice meditation and other wellness modalities to be present, alert, and rested for experiences that come my way so that I can be closer to my best self for my loved ones and my communities. Sometimes we can’t know the impact we have on others. The things we say, the looks we give people—a rolled eye or a smile, the actions we take, all have a potential impact.

I remember grocery shopping at the height of the pandemic in 2020, and watching someone in line ahead of me at Trader Joe’s do a celebration dance with the last package of toilet paper. I still think about that stranger. Luckily, toilet paper wasn’t on my list that day, but neither was being on the receiving end of what might have felt like a schoolyard taunt.

When my son was small, he and I went on a special trip to the local pancake house. When came time to ask for the bill, I was told that it had already been paid. The payor, who also included a generous tip, wished to remain anonymous and had already left.

Sometimes life gets difficult and it’s hard to behave well or even think straight, but how we respond is important. That, to me, is why having wellness practices is critical. If we are consistent, we are better prepared when things go sideways. It’s not to say that meditation will repair any sort of devastation, but the effects of a long-standing meditation practice will always be with you and will serve you well in any situation.

In the guided audio today, we will practice staying steady so that we are ready when things become difficult.

I hope to see you back here next week.

xx Page