Anger, fear, self-doubt — “fight, flight, freeze” — are normal human reactions to threat. But, when trauma is long-lasting, these instincts undermine and can harm us.
In crisis, it is helping, being present and taking responsible action that will see us through. May we focus on the solutions to things that we can change today and limit energy/emotion wasted on the rest.
May we be mindful of our language, especially words that label and divide us — “leftist,” “socialist,” “millennial” … . When we blame and shame others, we distract ourselves from the work we need to do to improve our situation.
To persevere, we must accept/adapt, best we can, to our new normal. Recognize that this is not easy — for anyone. We all have made/will make mistakes. We all must deal with frustration/disappointment. May we forgive ourselves and each other — because no one is perfect, and no one saw today’s hardships coming.
Think of how much we have learned, how much we have done, in such short time, working together! Know: You don’t have to be a “hero” to impact positively the lives of your family and community. Act smart. Think kind. Model courage. And remember, this, too, will pass!
Susan Wilson
Greensburg