Ursula Jones

There are specific challenges that have come about with maintaining strong relationships with others, especially this year. Due to social distancing, we have had to get more creative with how to connect with those around us. As human beings, we are social creatures; therefore, maintaining distance can be difficult. However, there are ways that we can get around this. For instance, through the benefits of technology, we can call, text, and even video chat with other individuals from as close as next door or as far as on the other side of the world. We are able to have a closer look into their lives through the video chats and Zoom meetings that we can have.

In the midst of our busy days, especially when we are engaging in multiple roles as parents, workers, students, and the like, just surviving can feel like an amazing feat. However, we are called to do much more than survive: we are meant to THRIVE! What do I mean by this? We are meant to show up as our truest, best self as much as possible. How can we really do this? I know this seems unfeasible. But I am here to share a few tips for you. First and foremost, it is important to ASK FOR HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT. I struggle greatly with this one. I feel as though it is revealing vulnerability and I like to feel in charge. However, we have to remember that no one is perfect. Some days are easier than others and we might not need as much help. But other days can be a struggle for us – this is when we must learn to lean on one another. What does help from others mean? It can be anything from someone listening to you, offering advice, helping you to provide for yourself through your basic needs (being able to eat a great meal, take a nap, or take a day off from work can sometimes do wonders for us), or whatever it is that you might need help with.

Hey, you! Yes, you! How are you doing? I know that you will probably say, “I’m fine.” But how are you really doing? If we’re all a bit honest with ourselves, there are moments when we barely feel like we can hold it together. Some days can seem unbearable. I know – I’ve been there. We all have those moments. But through it all, we must remember to be strong. We cannot always be strong alone – sometimes we must rely on each other. This is something that I am reminding myself constantly as no man or woman is an island. People in our lives are there for a reason: whether good or bad, they can teach us lessons and how to learn more about ourselves in the process. How can we best deal with life’s twists and turns? It is through understanding that in life, there will be constant change and evolution. Think about it. We begin life as babies who eventually grow up into teenagers and then adults. Oftentimes, we are unprepared for these transitions; in fact, I believe that many adults have childhood wounds that still need to be healed.