Hope is an emotion that is based in a process of discovery and exploration of losses that one has experienced. Hope and despair are on a continuum and are the opposite sides of the same coin. As the world, and in particular the United States, continues re-opening, hope and despair can be experienced by many. Hope, rather than hoping that things are the way they were, may be replaced by a search for new ways of doing things, new processes, or new traditions. Despair can be rooted in the belief that everything needs to remain the same and if not, we may lack the necessary insights that are needed to move forward.
With all the potential changes that are being recommended, it may seem so chaotic that we might not be able to make sense of it all. Yet, stepping back, observing, reflecting, and maintaining openness, we can begin to see a familiar pattern that is evolving. Familiar in the sense that we have succeeded in past chaotic environments and have a storehouse of strengths that we can tap into, and new ones to be developed.
Key Takeaways
Hope can result from searching for new ways of doing things.
Despair can result from not believing that one can survive in a different environment.
Hope and despair are the opposite sides of the same coin.
The chaos of the moment can offer important insights.
Best Practices
Communicate your hopes, fears, and expectations to trusted others.
Explore new ways to nourish the mind-body-soul connection by exploring new recipes with traditional ingredients, e.g. take a walk in a new location, listen to a new inspirational presenter, prepare a meal with a favorite spice in a new recipe.
Be observant and be willing to change those traditions/practices that are no longer adequate during this time.
Things to Limit
Thinking that yesterday’s solutions are the answer to today’s challenges.
Waiting for everything to go back to normal.
Excesses such as: drinking, gambling, junk food, screen time.
Quote of the Week
“You cannot swim for new horizons until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore”
~ William Faulkner
As we all strive to be safe and secure for ourselves and others, we need to realize that there are many roads that can be traveled. Listening, thinking, and deciding may take time and, in the long-run is well worth the effort. Hope can offer the light that illuminates the darkness.
Be well,
paraDocs
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The paraDocs are Dr. Francis L. Battisti, PhD, Psychotherapist, Distinguished Psychology Professor and former Executive V.P and Chief Academic Officer and Dr. Helen E. Battisti PhD, RDN, CDN, Chief Nutrition Officer at SpNOD, Health Promotion Specialist, Research and Clinical Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and former Assistant Professor.
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