I'm not even sure how to start this, so I’m just going to start. This has been such a challenging time. After COVID-19 and lock down, I was looking forward to getting back to some sense of normal. The death of George Floyd and so many others has sparked a conversation that has been long overdue.
I’m not sure how you are affected.
There have been so many people of cultures different than mine that have asked me how they can help. On the flip side so many of us are angry and frustrated by the present state of the USA.
If you are empathetic and you're not sure what to do, here are a few ideas:
Talk to New people, You’ll learn something about someone different than you.
Try out someone else’s life, eg. attend a different church or religion, acknowledge someone else’s feeling by putting yourself in their shoes
Join forces for a shared cause.
Admit you are biased.
Be honest with yourself.
Stand up for others
Raise Empathetic kids.
If you’re feeling angry, frustrated and overwhelmed:
Think before you speak, in the heat of the moment it’s easy to say something.
Once you calm down, express your anger
Get some exercise
Take a time out ( esp. From Social Media and Media)
Identify possible solutions
Stick with “I” statements
Don’t hold a grudge
Use Humor to release tension
Hopefully these tips will be helpful to provide you with some tools to see you through this moment in history. This too shall pass. Come of out this moment, a little wiser, a little more empathetic and having peace in your hearts.
Much love,
Stephanie J