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Dear Friends:
I hope this note finds you and your family doing well.
Within the past two months, our world has changed dramatically, and here in New York we have hit the PAUSE button on our daily lives. We are all seeking new ways to cope with the pandemic, and some people have turned to cooking, sewing, painting, reading, and making music, videos and zoom calls as a way to connect with friends and family.
Exercise, both indoors and outdoors, is another option for alleviating stress. Something as simple as walking can burn calories, strengthens your heart and joints, and boosts your energy and immune system. As a writer, I spend a great deal of time indoors at the computer, so getting outside not only improves my mood, but my creativity as well.
Last Saturday, the day was sunny and the temps were in the 60’s, so my family and I strolled around the Vassar College Campus in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. The trees were blossoming in red, white and pink, and the tulips outside the Main Building were at their peak beauty. I was surprised that so many others had the same idea, and our fellow visitors were respectful of the Social Distancing signs dotting the campus, and most of us wore masks. It was strange reminder that while the world looks the same as it always has it is not. But beauty and wonder still surround us if we keep our eyes open.
In these unsettled times, we must remain positive. As Walt Whitman said “Keep your face always toward sunshine and shadows will fall behind you.”
So, as the nice weather arrives, be inspired. Get outdoors, eat good food, and be social (at a distance or through technology). Your mind, body and spirit will thank you, and maybe we’ll see you on one of our journeys outside.
Also, send out your thanks to the first responders, volunteers, essential workers and medical professional who are making our daily lives livable.
Stay well and think positive!
Jodé
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