Optimism

By Melanie Froemke, LCSW, RPT-S, e-RYT200

The last week has been tough for many. Over the last week, following the US election, I've connected with clients and therapists alike- who are not sure exactly what the future holds. A good number of people have told me they're moving to Canada (although I'm not sure that Canada wants us...). Some people have decided never to talk to family members again- and I've even heard of couples divided over the last election who are now in therapy (thank goodness for couples therapy and couples' therapists!). It's a lot to hold. For me, it's been helpful to remind those in my life (and in my practice) to come back to where we have control- and where we don't. Acknowledging that alone can help to shave off a layer of anxiety that we may be holding.

Personally, I've been grateful for the tremendous support shared by my therapist networks- therapists are coming out of the woodwork to share thoughts on supporting clients while also caring for oneself during difficult times. I'm reminded to take one day at a time.

Today, these words from Nelson Mandela were shared. They struck a chord for me. Maybe it's what I needed at the time, and what I need right now. I'm holding it close - and sharing it in the hopes that it can provide some sense of hope in uncertain times.

Optimism

I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. 

There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.

~ Nelson Mandela