Light in the Midst of the
Clouds
Welcome to the last day of November. As
we begin the transition from Fall to
Winter, there is much going on. The days
are shorter, the nights longer, and the
holiday season is in full tilt boogie
mode.
Here in the Osborne/Rader household, we
are experiencing our own transitions.
One has been on the job front. My
husband Robert has joined the throngs of
others who are now out of work, due to
downsizing.
The other significant one involves my
elderly mom. Her longtime, on-going
health challenges recently resulted in
placement in a local long term health
care facility. As a family, we had
worked very hard to give her needed care
while remaining at home (which fell
primarily on my dad's hands) yet recent
developments led to her needing round
the clock professional care.
In the midst of these recent
transitions, I'll admit that my
typically sunny and optimistic outlook
has been noticeably clouded.
My husband's situation has taken on
some positive aspects that have led him
into a re-invention mode that he is
finding energizing. Conversely my mom's
recent transition has not been a
positive one and it has most certainly
affected her happiness, as well as the
happiness of our close-knit family.
As a Professional Coach, much of my work
with my clients and outdoor retreat
participants involve conversations and
exploration regarding how to positively
navigate life's varied transitions. Yet,
in this current moment in time, I've
been feeling a bit stymied as to how to
make that happen for myself.
However, on one recent particularly
upsetting day regarding my mom's
situation; at the end of the day, I took
myself out for a solitary walk in the
woods. It was a cool, crisp, and sunny
late afternoon and I was determined to
find some good in the remaining day.
And I did. The outdoor environment was
perfect for a walk and I puposely paid
attention to all my senses as I strode
through the forest. And indeed, I
noticed my spirits lifting; if just for
a moment.
What I'm learning through these new
transitions is something I've known for
a long time yet am now understanding on
an even deeper level. I am in charge of
my thoughts and actions and I can
experience a sense of comfort and/or
happiness even when facing negative life
situations. Things I already incorporate
into my life like my forest walks or
enjoying simple cup of tea in my
sunroom before my work day kicks in, or
conversation with my husband at the
dinner table; all take on even more
important meaning in the midst of these
current "clouds" . I do not take those
comforting moments for granted. I am
becoming even more intentional about
seeking peace and relaxation on a daily
basis. And in doing so, I know that I
will find light in the midst of the grey
storm.
