Center and Observe your Vulnerability for Insight and Direction

“Sometimes the most pastoral thing to do is stop over functioning and let some things go. It is alright if we don’t get to observe our Holy days the same way. It really is. Peace.” —Rev. Dr. Susan A. Minasian

Are you struggling under the weight of sadness during these days of COVID-19? I know I am. . . but not constantly. It fluctuates throughout the day, like grief.

Today an added grief is that, for the next few months at least, I will not be facilitating the First Friday Retreat at Richmond Hill. Although holding the retreat online is always an option, I’m choosing not to. One of the more exhausting aspects of the stay-at-home quarantine is that so many of us are attempting to continue on “as normal” but on-line. Our First Friday group gathers at Richmond Hill each month to get away from screen time, household tasks, the noise of the world to be still with God. That’s why, although it can be helpful to connect virtually, I’m suggesting for First Friday that we take a break, let it go, rest and recover.

So what to do in the meantime?

C - Take time each day to Center yourself. Centering prayer and meditation quiet the chattering mind and ground you in the here and now. With regular practice you will begin to notice a decrease in anxiety and an increase in compassion, both for yourself and others.

O - Take time to clearly Observe your own reactivity, thoughts and emotions. When you feel out of sorts, what need of yours is not being met? What are you willing and able to do to meet that need? One need many of us have these days is the need to mourn. We are all going through a grieving process as life has changed so dramatically. What are some creative, nurturing ways for you to mourn the loss you feel? What do you need to let go of? Take a walk and observe nature. What do you notice? What lessons can you learn?

V - Notice whether or not you feel vulnerable right now. Are you willing to share that sense of Vulnerability with someone? As they say, “We’re all in this together.” You are not alone. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable with another, we allow them to connect with us from the heart and we can feel their support. It’s helpful to remember that others are also feeling vulnerable right now. Be kind. Be supportive.

I - This forced isolation can be an opportunity to gain Insight and awareness into your own life. Have you been living the life you want? What are you learning through this experience? What changes do you want to make? Are there hidden gifts in the “stay-at-home” mandate for you?

D - Spend some time reflecting on the insights you’ve gained and you will find Direction for the days to come. And the only direction you need in the moment is the next right step. What is your Next Right Step? It might just be making the bed or doing the dishes.

We’ll get through this together. Hang in. Be well.