The world is on fire. Both figuratively and literally. Yet, we don’t have to sit back and get burned. We can be firefighters. We can make it through. Here’s my advice on how.
We all can do our part. Whether that’s through volunteering or just sharing important information through social media, we all should be trying to do something to make life easier for ourselves and our community. Our village is our power, so make sure to take care of yours. I do my part through The Clear Media Project, but not everyone’s part is as grand. Simply reaching out to a friend can be doing your part. Make sure those around you have the support they need to get through tough times.
Prioritize self care. I know, you’ve been told this 10,000 times before. But self care does not always look like a face mask and a spa day (even though it definitely can). Self care also looks like turning off your cell phone, going for a walk, meditation, or just reading a book. Doing something you enjoy counts as self care. Spending time with those you love counts as self care, and that’s all important because you can’t help anyone before you help yourself.
Don’t minimize your feelings. Don’t let anyone tell you your feelings are “too much.” You’re allowed to feel depressed, angry, or extremely happy at any given moment. My mom taught me that. Bottling up your emotions, especially when things are just going to keep adding to them, will only make them more explosive. Let yourself cry. Let yourself laugh. Just let yourself do whatever it is you want to.
Honestly, I don’t truly have any more advice. I’ve only been on this planet 16 years, and I’m not sure how to deal with everything I feel about almost every news headline I read. But what I do know is that I’m going to keep reading. We all need to keep learning, laughing, crying, and loving. It’s the essence of our existence and humanity itself.
With hope and support, until next time,
Ella Greene
