We are experiencing a fuel shortage right now here in Atlanta and in several places around the country– a cyber-attack rendered a pipeline inoperative. While this may not seem like a very big deal, the anxiety and worry I am seeing and hearing online and among friends and family is real. People are concerned about getting to work and to upcoming graduations. It feels like so many of us are already stretched very thin. The chronic stress of COVID-19, concerns over economic instability, the collective cries for social justice and systemic equity, the realities of climate change, the constant political divisiveness, and so much more continuously swirl around us. The weight of this particular time in history is heavy, and I find myself very distracted these days.
There are wonderful things, beautiful things happening all around me, but often I find only momentary comfort there. My goals for sabbatical—being present, taking care, finding joy in books and in writing—are more elusive than I had hoped. Instead, I find myself looking to escape–watching HGTV and Food Network shows or busying myself with laundry, cooking, and cleaning. Even when I try to focus and be present, I feel an inner restlessness. It is hard to process what is happening all around. I sometimes feel powerless, not hopeless, but powerless against the constant push of the world. I want to find freedom, peace, and power in the spiritual spaces; sometimes I do.
If these random posts resonate with you or you are interested in longer pieces related to education, learning, and practice, I invite you to visit my blog page. The longer pieces there are intended to spark conversation and serve as catalysts for thought and hopefully for change.
life of practice 