So, in the spirit of vulnerability, I have been tired for months. And, although, of course, at times I have been swept into moments of joy and gratitude, I have also spent an inexplicable amount of time barely hanging on through the day-to-day expectations and responsibilities. As I have continued in this less than ideal reality, I found myself confronted with the idea of moving through rather than pushing away the negative emotions and experiences.
Author: theunexpectedeverafters
Washington: Prescient Leader and Flawed Human
As we contemplate the past, and consider our future, let’s not forget to incorporate a little bit of grace for ourselves, our neighbors, and those in leadership positions, we’re all only human after all.
Life Lessons from Children’s Books
Even as an adult, I have found that many children’s books offer gentle, hope-filled reminders that I need in my own life.
Lean into Learning to Celebrate MLK Day
Today, I challenge you to celebrate MLK Day by taking some time to find a book, article, podcast, or movie to continue to expand your understanding of racism. To get you started, I wanted to share some resources I have found particularly helpful in my journey on this issue.
New Dream, Full Heart
This year, my perspective on my process of setting goals and intentions has changed. My expectations of 2021 are reflective of the fact that we are still navigating this global pandemic. But, this acceptance brings a hope of setting realistic expectations, living daily with intention, and dreaming about what I want to carry with me into the future.
The Season of Waiting
The Advent season, Latin for “coming,” feels especially relevant this year as “waiting” corresponds with the experience that has consumed most of 2020.
The Comfort of Christmas
Although Christmas celebrations will look different than years past, the beauty, sounds, and tastes of the holidays remind me of life before the upheaval of 2020. In addition, I have found comfort in the celebration of Jesus’s birth and the reminder that 2020 is just a drop in the bucket of time.
Thankfulness (even in 2020)
Thankfulness that is punctured by sadness can still have a sense of peace and gratitude woven throughout.
One-Year Blogiversary
Cheers to our one-year blogiversary!
Blogiversary Week 6: Breathe, Truth, and Hope
I originally wrote this piece only a few weeks into our spring school COVID-19 closure. And, it is safe to say that our stress levels continue to remain high. However, the suggestions in this post continue to be applicable. First, breathe, take the time to slow down, focus on your breath, and actively calm down your brain. Second, find the truth. As I wrote in this post, “I have found that focusing on truth and being aware of the impact of my thoughts on my feelings and actions makes a difference. Fear should not get to control this (or any) situation.” And last, “look for the helpers.”
the unexpected ever afters 