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As the world continues to face one of its biggest challenges, I felt compelled to write something encouraging. So many things weigh heavily on us all-not just the COVID virus itself. The medical and health risks-especially among the older members of society (and the CDH community) skews a bit towards the older cohort. Throw in the financial worries as the whole world is shutting down for a time, and there is a real concern as to the lasting effects on the economy.
There are the feelings of isolation that occur because of the social distancing and lock-downs being implemented throughout so much of the world. This is even truer for the CD/TG community, which by its nature is already isolated by much of society. Thankfully though, that is changing for the better, albeit far too slowly. Those of us in the US and Canada were SO looking forward to the Keystone Conference in PA (that would have been next week) or the others such as Diva Las Vegas and Esprit that have either been postponed or cancelled. The timing of this pandemic is particularly hard hitting.
But while we cannot ignore the difficulties we are facing, we CAN choose how we respond to it. The fact that this is happening NOW in today’s perpetually-connected times is a blessing. While we may not be able to get together in person, as we had planned, we still have the virtual connections through this site to allow us to maintain a human touch. In previous decades, the isolation would have been much more painful. I know that for me, the friends I have made over the last four years here are reaching out with love and encouraging words. We can support each other in these challenging times. I encourage each of you to reach out through chat and PMs to those you've grown close to, and also reach out to the newer folks, let them know you are thinking about them as well. This is how a community thrives in troubled times.
In the same breath, family has never been more important. We owe so much to our parents and grandparents, and due to the much higher risks they face from the virus, along with the necessary isolation to safeguard their health, many of them are probably feeling forgotten. If you are fortunate enough to still have them around, call, email, or write to them. It's so important to let them know how much they are loved. Do the same for folks you know in the healthcare and emergency services who must continue their jobs in spite of the increased risks they face. If you are blessed financially, consider reaching out and offering assistance to those less fortunate. It is at times like these, when basic human decency and kindness are needed most, where our actions have the greatest impact on peoples’ lives.
On a more personal level, realizing that none of us are promised a tomorrow, commit yourself to living and being as true to yourself as possible. For those who are wanting and able (given their situation), take the opportunity to let your hidden self show. Though I am always at least in stealth Cyn mode in normal times, I am taking advantage of this time (I’m required to work from home) to be in full Cyn mode 24/7. I'm aware that not everyone CAN or even necessarily wants to go that far, but whatever your goals are, take this chance to seize the day. Over the last several years, I have begun to worry less about what others think of me, and instead concentrate more on what I see in myself.
Not everything will always turn out perfectly, I HAVE to face the world as an optimist and be hopeful. Doing otherwise would mean resigning myself to the view that things can’t get better, and I refuse to live that way. Positive change in the world doesn’t come from the top down; it starts within each of us, spreading outward to others as we share it. I’m committing myself to making a positive difference. Will you join me? Together we CAN change the world!
Cyn
Thank you Cyn. I am a senior citizen and I am afraid. My wife and I are hunkering down for whatever time it takes. Fortunately I have loving family close to me. I will have to give up dressing for a while but there are worse things.
That was a real good posting. I have been trying to stay in touch with my family and all the online friends I have made over last few months - was doing that before reading this - will do so more now.
Thank you Cynthia,,,,a really great post
Thank you Sweetie for a wonderful post. I spend more time in chat then I do reading articles. This corona time is the reason I took the time to read your post and I feel much better for it. Our forum will help greatly in these next few weeks. Thank you sooo much for contributing.
Huggs
Bree
You are too kind Bree but thanks. I know how it feels to feel lonely and forgotten and if just one person feels better because one of our members reached out to them I will be happy.
Cyn
Sensitivity is a gift. Empathy is a wonder.
Times like these bring out the worst in many, the best in those who usually give their best and a goodness that many only reveal at such times - though we hope that it continues after the chaos. Or as J Browne said “After the Deluge”.
Times as this see a rise in:
Crime
Hate Crimes
Anti-semitism
Finger Pointing
Racism ( beyond the horrible )
Cults
Charlatans
Gun Sales
Horoscope Sales
Not often enough:
Kindness
Encouragement
Patience
Skippy. Thanks for taking the helm.
Kate
Ha Cyn , always like reading your articles , always in a positive mode . I think we all need to stay in a positive mode , thinking positive is good for your health , or so they say . I'am not going to stick my head in a whole in the sand , i'am still going shopping , food for me and my pets , getting out side as much as possible , my yard , just out , don't want cabin fever . I may catch this virus , it will be the will of GOD almighty , i'am not going to stair a whole in my bed room ceiling , if i go , i'am going out not afraid but form living my life as it was intended .To all i say be careful , keep washing your hands . If i see a friend and they stick out their hand i will shake it , i will not be rude to my friends , i have a small bottle of hand sanitizer i will use it and offer them some to , i will not be rude , just careful . Please if you must stay in get on the internet and talk here to your friends , face book were ever , just don't be alone , don't let darkness take over , open a window , smell the breeze , see the birds , a better tomorrow is on the horizon , it will come . Love you all your friend Leslie
Great advice Leslie. that's the main message I wanted to convey-don't be foolish but don't let yourself spiral into panic and depression either,The world has been through worse and gotten through it and will this time too! Be there for each other and be sure to stay connected.
Cyn
Oh Cynthia, you hit the nail on the head. I too will be home for a few weeks and will rely heavily on my girlfriends here to get me through. I will be chatting up a storm I am sure. I will apologize in advance for clogging up the airwaves. lol. Here's to a virtual girl slumber party. Hugs all. God Bless and stay strong my sisters.
Danielle
Cyn I always look forward to hearing your thoughts and feelings you put into many of what you write but this is certainly one of your best. Truly a Turbulent time and with this posting certainly is something we all need to hear. We need to be uniting with all that is important as in family, friends and of course our Cdh community. Many are struggling with isolation and worried about what tomorrow will being. Our world is seeing the worst of times but we must not fall short in being compassionate and sincere to one another and make our lives worth living and help our fellow man or woman to take on a Strength that can be achieve and show a promise that we can get through this and become stronger as we move forward.
Thank you Cynthia your certainly a glowing light and a voice of hope for all.
Stephanie
Great posting. I agree. Thanks
Hey Cyn! Thank You for this. This was good to see. I am sure it will help others. CDH does so much to help with the issue of isolation. And especially now, it's needed more than ever. Prudence
Cynthia, beautifully put. You are a God send to this site, it's members, and all those you touch. The warmth of your heart spreads through us all. Take care, feel our love, and always be beautiful, Holly
You write so very well!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts at some length at this most difficult time.
I will comment in particular on the last two paragraphs of your essay:
The thoughts you conveyed in your last paragraph provide some genuine help. I have been so stressed out that it has been difficult to sleep. I have tried lately to not listen to or view the news. But avoiding it does not eliminate my anxiety because I then imagine what bad news I might be missing. Classical music has proved to be the worst as I keep thinking of the scene on the Titanic when the violinists were playing away as the ship was sinking. My preferred country western music has, in contrast, been somewhat helpful.
As for your next to the last paragraph: It is the social isolation of these days that led me to become active on this site, even though I had been on it for some time. In all candor, this site has been the primary avenue for me to seek relief from all the stress. (CD long has been a stress-reliever for me. One can come home tired from a long day of work and doing CD can be wonderfully transformative and relaxing.)
So, with all the stress in our world today and all the uncertainty and worry about the future, my attitude about doing CD has become: What the hell, why not? Go for it!
Beautiful Eve!!! I asked myself, what have I got to gain? Confidence, independence of the good opinion of others, self-assurance, and courage were a few of my answers,,,so far, I'm gaining them all in spades as I expand hehe
The easiest way I have found to take my mind of any negative is to consciously and intentionally focus it on something else that feels empowering and strengthening for me. The more I focus on that positive, the less my mind can cling to the fear thoughts.
Make sense dear?
I wish you all things wonderful Eve 🙂
Namaste'
n huggles for you dear
Char
Ooooh Cyn Goose bumps!!
Each of us can chose to be part of the problem or part of the solution and commit to making as much of a difference as possible: I'm in!!
If there is one thing this situation has shown me its that life is as fragile as the wings of the butterfly,,,and equally as strong and powerful in creating global change for the betterment of all.
Yes! we can chose how we respond and I choose to use this time of self isolation (physically) to seriously expand my reach and up my game in support of our tribe, digitally.
A beautifully written piece Cyn, as always!
What a pure pleasure to be able to witness your expansion in becoming; thank you for that and for being Amazing you girl!!
Enjoy your home time "Cyn" there's no place like,,,Being there 🙂
Namaste'
sweet soul, n huggles of course
Char
Hey Cyn, I am glad you wrote this article, especially at this time, it's more important than ever to be reminded that being true to yourself, because who knows what tomorrow will bring. It is necessary to remain positive and look forward to the future, as hard as that might be right now to see. <3 Gwenn
