Seeking Light In the Tunnel

Carve a tunnel of hope through the dark mountain of disappointment. Martin Luther King, Jr., American minister and activist

Feeling less joyful than usual this holiday season? Like many of you, I have a long list of disappointments during this dark time of living in the midst of a global pandemic. What can we do to “carve a tunnel of hope” as Dr. King suggests? 

Here are a few suggestions: Talk to someone about how you’re feeling, practice good self care, Zoom or meet personally in a safe way with a group who shares your interests, set achievable goals for yourself. 

And–give yourself some empathy! Tell yourself that it’s normal to feel sad and disappointed right now, it’s okay to not be your usual vibrant self—this won’t last forever.

However, if you or someone you know is feeling extremely depressed, seek professional help or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or text START to 741-741 to talk to a trained counselor anytime. 

Affirmation: It’s okay to feel how I’m feeling.

Coaching questions/requests: How are you acknowledging your feelings? How can you show empathy to yourself and others in these challenging times? Make a list of current disappointments. Make a list of what you’re grateful for right now. 

Photo by Snowscat on Unsplash