“The thought that the world we once knew no longer exists, leaves a hole in our hearts and also leaves us wondering how and if we will overcome these difficult times.”
—Nancy Salmeron
It is said that nothing is certain but uncertainty. During the time of this pandemic, this feels true more than ever.
How are you? How are you adjusting to our new reality? I once believed that four months into the pandemic we would have more clarity and certainty about this virus, but it is more unclear and uncertain than ever. [DM1] of people all over the world are waking up with uncertainty. The thought that the world we once knew no longer exists, leaves a hole in our hearts and leaves us wondering how and if we will overcome these difficult times. However, I want to tell you that you will, because you are strong and resilient. I also want to share with you some ideas for dealing with the fear of uncertainty.
Zero in on the things you can control.
Uncertainty will target the things you can’t control. I am asking you to focus on the things you can control. It is quite normal to pay attention to the spread of the virus and the death count. And, while you should be informed, you must not let the news consume you. Do what you can that is within your control. Take precautions by regularly washing your hands, wearing a mask, and avoiding large crowds and gatherings. Then let it go. Focus on the things you can do about this virus to avoid negative repercussions, and then let go of worrying about what the future may bring. Being a responsible human means that you are aware of what is happening in our world and will do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus, but then you will surrender outcomes to your source.
Welcome not knowing what the future may bring.
We have been conditioned to believe that we need to plan for the future so we can have meaningful lives. And while it’s important to have dreams and goals and work towards them, it’s also important to be flexible and accepting of everything that shows up in our future. Life before the pandemic was also unpredictable and uncertain. But this virus has reinforced the reality that life can change from one moment to the next. The blessing in the midst of uncertainty is that it reminds us of how quickly we can adapt, overcome challenges, and increase our resiliency when we accept what is.
Trust that YOU will get better with time.
Things may not get better with time, or at least in a short time. But WE can become better with time. Humans are resilient, strong, and perseverant. You will adjust and change when you stop fighting change and embrace it. Surrender to what is, and let go of what you once thought your life would be. Hanging on to what we expected life should be causes our suffering. Why fight something that you can’t change? You will get better when you surrender to what is, and let go of what was.
During the pandemic, I have concluded that it is essential that we become comfortable with uncertainty and continue to do so after the pandemic is over. Coping with uncertainty is a dance of knowing what you can control and letting go of what you can’t control. Uncertainty will also remind you and teach you how strong and resilient you are. Don’t let fear or worst-case scenarios get the best of you. Listen and pay attention to your fear, and then set it free. When you surrender to what life is right now in the present moment, you will discover that all is well and you will awaken to inner peace. Remember, beautiful one, everything challenging that comes into your life will help you remember who you are and what you are made of. Keep your chin up and persevere. Until next time, Believe. Change. Become.