Gather Your Strength for the Journey Ahead Through Loving Connection

I recently gathered with eight other women to rest and rejuvenate for a few days. When we planned the weekend over a year ago, no one thought about the date or that the election was happening that week.

Upon entering the weekend together there was pain, fear and anxiety expressed as we shared what was happening in our lives.

The outcome of the election looks quite grim for a huge part of our population: women, non-white people, non-heterosexual people, non-evangelical people - to name just a few.

As we shared, our individual responses were raw at times – in certain moments hard to hear - and yet words that needed to be spoken.

We needed to give voice to what we were experiencing - to unburden our hearts and lighten the load.

Across our time together, we all collectively started to breathe more deeply. We relaxed and refilled our inner energy reservoirs as we shed layers and remembered the power of loving connection.

Connection is such a potent healer.

The connection of gathering in one space, hugging each other, loving each other.

The connection of hearing each other – listening deeply.

The connection to the earth beneath us and the air we breathe – walking each day together.

The connection of healing touch – good hands-on work.

The connection of sharing meals, creative arts and laughing together.

By the end of the weekend, we parted ways feeling much fuller and more hopeful that we could meet whatever life brings us next. 

These are important times for all of us to stay grounded, full and ready to stand up for what we know is right.

The future is looking particularly challenging for democracy right now and there are numerous unknowns on the horizon.

Which means it is even more vital to stay in loving connection – to yourself, to the earth, to your family and community, and to those willing to tell the truth.

In the United States, Thanksgiving is fast approaching.

You may want to take some time this year to reflect on what you are grateful for in your life now. Share your gratitude with those around you. 

If possible, gather with friends and family and give voice to your gratitude there as well. At my house we start every Thanksgiving with a sharing of gratitude and remembrances.

Hug the people around you – let yourself connect as you share meals, play games, and laugh – rejuvenating your spirit and refilling your inner energy reservoir for the journey ahead.

May you take this time to create loving connection – and enjoy!

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