Two Mantras for Hope During Difficult Times

I have a life philosophy that turns into a mantra when I need it.

Keep showing up.

It’s helpful in times of frustration, fatigue, or challenge.

But this past year, I found its limits. With the pandemic, losing my father, and a significant list of other big things and life changes, I found my cup empty. I stopped showing up in most of my usual ways.

Beyond the boundaries of showing up, another mantra emerged.

One foot in front of the other.

This looked like changing out of pajamas, cooking dinner, making the phone call, or signing the document. Sometimes it took all the brainpower that I could muster. Sometimes I couldn’t even follow the conversation at the dinner table.

One foot in front of the other.

Never in my life had I had so little to give, but as time passed, I felt the return of showing up.

These two mantras are linked by hope. One is for the routine ups and downs of life. The other is for when the wheels fall off the wagon.

We move forward for ourselves and for each other. For our relationships, our passions, and our work to do in the world.

The beauty is worth the pain.

Keep showing up.

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