 There is a theory that the American Indians couldn't see the ships of Columbus because they had no previous experience of that kind of structure and only saw them as they got close to the beach in the smaller boats. Without something familiar and similar there was no way to make a connection to something so foreign and the brain couldn't register the large ships.
My own personal experience of this pandemic has been similar. Back when I first heard there was a flu going around China, I just thought it was another SARS and didn't really pay much attention. My sister and her husband were finishing up a sail around the world and having their boat shipped from Singapore. They were having some difficulty with that, so this "flu" began to become more of something to pay attention too, but still not here and not a big deal. Even when it showed up in this country, I just thought it was another form of the flu we get each year and so I'd just make sure to stay healthy, still not registering how big this thing was. Even when the shelter in place came about, I figured that being a licensed health care provider, I'd just work on limited clients because several were concerned that we wouldn't be open and massage was their only relief. The numbers of infected kept growing and concern was becoming hysteria. Businesses were closing and I realized that in order to keep clients safe and not contribute to the problem, it was time to close. That was when the panic hit... In 2008 I had to close a mortgage business I'd loved and had for 10 years. I hit a perfect storm combining financial loss from a divorce, being new to this area and having the economy take a nose dive. I lost everything and was mostly unemployed for 3 years while the economy was recovering. It took a toll on my health and state of mind. In 2009 I realized I needed a new career and went to massage school. It has taken me 10 years to build a practice and business I love. COVID-19 has triggered old trauma, but given me a chance to practice new skills. The panic, fear, anxiety, grief and anger have been real and red hot. The emotional roller coaster was a wild ride for about the first week and now has subsided into a pretty steady pace of calm. I realized I needed to accept the situation and become OK with the reality of losing everything and having to start over, again. I took control by calling all my creditors, landlords and vendors and talking about the possibilities so I would know what to prioritize financially. I make sure I stay on a schedule and take care of myself, my critters and my environment. Each day I have one or two things to do so I feel productive and I make sure to keep a regular sleep and wake cycle. My breath and meditation practice has been a big part of staying balanced. Staying in contact with family and friends by phone or email has helped me feel less alone. Helping others and volunteering gives me purpose and something positive I am contributing. I know I will be OK and get through this. This time is a gift to really examine what is important and to practice my skills while in real crisis. I am curious to see where I am on the other side of this and am enjoying learning new skills and taking up new hobbies. Our shop is temporarily closed but that doesn't mean we aren't here. Feel free to reach out by email or phone and touch base. I hope you are well and staying healthy. I truly appreciate those of you that have shown your support by purchasing gift certificates. WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS!!! |
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