The Tao Te Ching tells us that "the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." And that's how we will get through this Covid-19 Coronavirus crisis.
Not so long ago, we had busy schedules with plans, work projects, deadlines, appointments, meetings with friends, and familiar routines. Then everything changed.
A fearful invisible threat entered our lives. Now we are told to stay home, shelter in place, work remotely, and go out only for essential activities. Schools, restaurants, theaters, gyms, and local shops are closed. Sporting events are cancelled and all our plans are gone. What was predictable and familiar is no more.
We've entered an empty space of waiting and uncertainty, frightening statistics on the news, and rumors on social media. Many of us feel lost and alone.
We venture out to the grocery store to find that shelves are bare, looted by people desperately hoarding toilet paper, paper towels, and essential food supplies. Overcome with fear, some of our neighbors have become compulsive hoarders.
Those of us who've become successful by setting goals, planning, and persevering need to learn new skills of patience, flexibility, and self-compassion.
Setting our intention, we can learn to live more mindfully, taking each day one step at a time, living in the present moment. Aware of what is happening around us, we can listen to our hearts, our inner guidance to reveal the next step, taking one step at a time.
To be present with the process, take a moment now to:
- Take a long, deep breath and slowly release it.
- Close your eyes as you focus on your heart, slowly breathing in and out,
- Recognizing how you feel,
- Asking, "How am I feeling?" and naming that feeling. Is it fear, worry, frustration, restlessness, loneliness, or something else?
- Then ask yourself, "What do I need?"
- Put your hand on your heart, focusing on your breathing as you see yourself taking one small step to meet your need.
- Then gently open your eyes.
As you practice this process, taking one step at a time, the path before you will open up. And together we will get through this challenging time. For as the Tao Te Ching says,
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."