December has finally arrived, with the news that viable vaccines can be delivered to frontline workers in health care and vulnerable elders in long term care. COVID-19 really doesn’t care as it moves from one case to another; here in central Canada our hospital system is at capacity, and in some ICUs the pressures are real.

The disparities have been evident for months there are workers who can work from home and there are workers who risk their own health and their families as their jobs require them to attend their workplaces. Food processors, agriculture, warehouses, trucking, health care, grocery stores, gasoline distributors, teachers and support staff. The challenges are known, some neighbourhoods have higher per capita precarious workers–temporary jobs, part time, many with no benefits, and sick time is not paid for many.

Hard choices for an individual and families with bills to pay, lodging, transportation, and a pandemic that means paying out for masks, some work sectors decimated i.e. airlines, restaurants, entertainment facilities.

In this season of peace and goodwill to men let’s step back and consider our options, we could gripe, be indignant, resigned, say “bah humbug”. Instead let’s remember that in the central story of December a child was born who demonstrated what it is to love, be humble, led miracles, faith, daresay optimism. Fellowship can be achieved; it’s in a modified form, to frontline workers share your gratitude, if you’re an “awfulizer” one of those complaining types stop. Stop repeating the same material, either resolve it or find new fodder to share; or even better look around and within yourself to expand on the positive attributes.

Take the time to list what you love, are grateful for, define some goals–make them specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time sensitive. Activate your heart more than your brain, look for the beauty in our world, listen to a child’s laugh, watch the senior who is speaking to a grandchild, look at the hands cradling a new life. Tuning your attitude is your task, not anyone else, it’s your message that can set the day, direction, destination.

Consider these few items; there is less pollution, we know more of our neighbours, spending time with the family, ZOOM with friends or extend the bubble, learn new skills, reacquaint with old hobbies, go for walks, bake, complete tasks long delayed, play outside, just pause and slow down. If you need to banish something let it be fear; instead instill yourself with optimism and at the very least resiliency. When you’re ready embrace love, it’s the emotion that works to strengthen us, show vulnerability, and heals. Namaste.

“You yourself, as much as anyone in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” –Buddha

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.–Helen Keller

Categories: Uncategorized

Paula M

Registered Nurse Storyteller, Healer, Scribe, Transformational Leader