Adversity, Ink, 6x8.5, 2020
Admittedly, the month of July was a struggle. I’ve been trying to be more consistently aware with what is going on in the world around me while asking myself what I can realistically do to contribute. Right now there seems to be a lot going on, and it hasn’t been easy to process. It has been overwhelming to remain emotionally sturdy while remaining informed. Thus, I fell back on old habits.
Over the past month, I watched all of Community via Netflix, ate too much junk food, slept a ton, and mindlessly played video games. All while looking anxiously at social media feeds and news articles, wondering when I would get back up on my high horse and move.
I had a few breaths of fresh air throughout the month. I contributed to a few things financially I thought were important, bought some post cards to contact local officials, tried a few new things, did a lot of country-side driving, had some decent conversations with an old friend, took a long hike in the woods, and watched a decent amount of comedic youtube videos. All of which has helped me stay somewhat afloat.
Thanks to some soul searching and star gazing while feeling paralyzed on the ground, so to speak, I’m starting to feel motivated again. I feel ready, albeit nervous, to stand up again and get back to work. I felt strong in May and June, and I’d like to summon that strength for August. This time, with some extra courage and a side of gentleness.
I’d to get back into the daily habit of exercising, studying Japanese, working on my creative endeavors, all while keeping my health up. I’d like to push myself to stay in touch with my family and friends, while offering my help where I can. And, I want to continue brainstorming how I’d like to help my community, while researching and staying informed on topics related, and taking action wherever possible. There’s a lot to do, and no more time to be lying on the ground, paralyzed by fear or anxiety. Time to go.