Similar to teaching well, living well during the coronavirus pandemic means reaching down deep for inspiration and good energy. Fortunately I am surrounded by many good leaders in my family, neighborhood, greater community, state, and at the national level who are exemplifying what it means to lead and live well at this time. And, as we know, there are some not-so-good leaders at the national level namely the Trump team, who dampen our spirit, inflame our frustrations, and challenge the intelligent, good living possible.
Today as I once again sought the silver linings of the pandemic, I was brought back to the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young song, Love the One You're With. When it comes to those we love, we often forget to think of those individuals as people apart from yourself. Your connections can be so solid that see yourself as a team more than as individuals. This is mostly positive, but to truly love the one you're with, you need to see those people as individuals too.
So today as I do the menial jobs on the list, I'll think about the ones I love and how I might love them more in ways that elevate their spirt, energy, and sense of warmth and connection. I'll let these questions lead me:
- What brings them the greatest joy as individuals?
- Where do our paths connect with the most warmth, happiness, and support?
- What can I do to further our future together by strengthening our bonds?
- How can I change the physical space we share to better support their needs, wants, and desire?
- What goals can I work towards to make them happier, more successful, and full of joy?
It is a luxury to have the time to think deeply about the wonderful people you love, and as the song suggests, that will help us to love the one(s) you're with.