I wanted to write these words just to feel what hope and healing feels like in my hands. These are my instructions for getting by and through some mediocre and awful things.

I’ve not been myself. I don’t think I could ever get back to the person I was before. I guess I’m trying to recover the pieces and parts of me left – to draw a bit of comfort from this era of revival. These instructions are my way of telling myself: I promise we’ll make it through.

Instructions for Getting By and Through

• Be present. Show up even when you don’t have the energy for anything else.
• Communicate. Take calls and respond to messages as soon as possible—even if it’s just to acknowledge receipt.
• Grab opportunities to learn and expand your knowledge and skills whenever given a chance.
• Demand involvement. Be fearless. Have a healthy level of discontent for things that could be better.
• Give more than you think you should.
• Follow-through. Action is better with words.
• Don’t be too self-critical. When you feel stuck, ask yourself: Is this permanent or temporary? Then act accordingly.
• Connect meaningfully. Be mindful and purposeful when you reach out to people. But remember, no reason to stay is an excellent reason to go.
• Ask for guidance and wisdom through every circumstance.

Note: Please hold a little space for yourself to say: I will overcome. I will heal. And I will recover.

Inspired by Mary Oliver’s Instructions for Living a Life