Twenty-six months ago life became filled with uncertainty. The world was on fire with a virus and confusion prevailed. The pandemic was leading the way and the world went into shelter from this invisible but deadly force. In those days, before vaccinations, the name of living in this new world was wearing a mask, keeping your distance from others, and working remotely,

Now the external world is visibly polarized. Issues of approved vaccinations and boosters have shifted from medical issues to issues of freedom. These external conflicts can be found in the interior world as well. Do I go back into the office and wear a mask, do I risk getting the virus even though I am vaccinated and boosted. Do I travel in a plane, or train or just stay put in the safety of home?

My family members are aged 18 months to 95 years. This requires me to think not only of my own aging but the ages of my family. Each event is marked with making risk assessments each step of the way. The complicated external world reflects
my own complicated internal world. Mindful living each day, exercise, eating well, meditating, and living outside in nature whether gardening or walking nurture the kind of resilience needed to cope and find the beauty of life each day.

I’ve taken a more conservative approach in living with the virus that I believe is still out there lurking. Life is too short and I do not want to get sick, even for a day. The simple life suits me and more importantly staying grounded protects me from the stresses of living in a complicated world.