It’s a difficult time for everyone, facing a global pandemic and all of the consequences associated with tough measures to keep people safe. I don’t expect many, if any at all, to be thinking about a redesign of their space. Clearly, no one should be planning large events in the coming months. So, my business is necessarily flattening out and I’m using the opportunity to do my part by staying home.
I have one happy pug right now, along with our standard poodle and two cats enjoying the company. My little Stanley though, he just celebrated his 15th birthday with a big grin amidst all of this chaos. He has severe arthritis, occasional incontinence and general difficulty moving. He has to be carried part of the way to most places. Most of his day is spent napping. But still, pick him up to go to the back yard, bring him in and put a bowl of food in front of him; and then treat him to a little dress up time with a photo shoot – and that guy just beams. He is a good mentor for me during this time.
If we’re doing our part, our lives will get pretty stark and simple in many regards right now. What I’m learning is that if we can see through the chaos and embrace the simplicity; there exists the possibility that we will experience incredible little moments of joy. These are little moments we’re often too busy, or too distracted, to observe and metabolize on a spiritual level. Slowing down and extending kindness, being creative and silly, sharing it with others, laughing and loving together – those ingredients make up the antidote to my funk. That, and one funky little pug. Thanks buddy!
Take care everyone, I’ll try to put this little happy out into the ether….hope it gets to you. Be well.
Sara L. Hinkel, M.S.Ed. 