Trying Times!

How many of you can see that we are in some trying times today? Can we all agree that everything feels a little heavier lately? It feels like the world is running on a low battery and everyone is just trying to hold it together. There are a lot of people whose fuses are almost completely burned out. No one is smiling, people are fighting, folks are losing their jobs, homes and minds. It would appear our federal government has lost sight of what really matters and that is the American People. I have some close friends who have been affected by these mass layoffs across the country and it's making life very difficult for them.

How do you keep your spirits up when everything around you is falling apart? It can be difficult to stay positive in these trying times without pretending everything is fine when it's not. I have to laugh to keep from crying through the difficult times. I've had to yell and scream when I am frustrated. I will not ignore what is happening, but I also know that I will find the light in the dark even if it's just a night light.

How do we stay positive during these difficult times? Well let me give you a few ways to do it.

• FEEL WHAT YOU FEEL

Just because I am positive, doesn't mean I am skipping out on my anger, fear or grief. I still feel these things, but I believe we are going to make it through. And yes, I have had to cry, scream, and put on my boxing gloves and hit my punching bag. Then I take a deep breath and realize that I am still here and keep it pushing.

• PROTECT YOUR PEACE

My mental energy is precious, and it has been a challenge for me to turn the switch off in my brain. I don't watch the news because most of it is doom and gloom. I limit my time on social media. I do my best to stay focused on good things.

• FIND YOUR LITTLE JOYS

Tiny joys can save lives. I love watching movies and eating movie theater popcorn. I love mowing my grass and working in the yard when the weather permits. I love laying in the sun when we have it here in Seattle. Listening to music and just relaxing. Make space for those moments in your lives. They are distractions but medicine.

• STAY CONNECTED

Even if it's just a text or call. Talk to people who see you. I have made it my mission to reach out to people as soon as they pop in my spirit. Remember we don't have to go through heavy times alone.

• FOCUS ON THINGS YOU CAN CONTROL

When the world feels chaotic, anchor yourself to the small stuff you can manage. For me, it's making sure my house is straight. Giving my dog a bath or working on a goal I have set for myself. Little wins create momentum.

• SPEAK KINDLY TO YOURSELF

You are doing your best in a time that's testing everyone. Remind yourself: 'I am allowed to struggle. I am allowed to rest. I am still worthy." I might not have it all figured out, but everything will be okay.

• BELIEVE IN THE BOUNCE-BACK

Hard times are not forever. Even though it feels like the world is burning, history and your own life shows that resilience is real. You and I have made through tough times before and we will make it through again.

Remember positivity isn't pretending. It's choosing to hope, even if it's just a whisper. It's choosing to keep showing up, to keep loving and to keep dreaming even when everything else seems uncertain. Think of this, tough times don't last forever but tough people do!

Oh and by the way, today is my oldest son Boogies, birthday! Love you son! I speak nothing but God's best upon you today and every day! Momma loves you!

Sending you love, light and positive vibes,

Cassie K.

#SayItOnSunday

"Always remember to LIVE life to the fullest, to LAUGH at everything and to LOVE unconditionally!"