Last year, for the first time in a few years, I went MIA on my blog posts for months at a time. I had difficulty thinking of simple topics upon which to write 300-500 words. This is a bad sign for a writer.
For a long time, I’d hear from college students, “I’m not feelin’ it.” Nowadays, some say, “Ya feel me?” I think many of you will understand when I admit that while I may feel what’s going on in the lives of others and across the globe (Iran, Australia, Puerto Rico, just to list recent events), in this overwhelming world, it’s sometimes difficult for me to feel what’s going on with myself. I go through life numb because there’s too much input and not enough time and energy for processing and output. For the artists reading along, you’ll understand, too, that this isn’t good for creating — to feel as though you’re somehow cut off from, well, your “soul.” I haven’t written a new poem in months!
Shortly after Trump rose to power, I saw warnings about “activism burnout” posted on social media. More recently, I’ve read posts about empathetic people needing to “set boundaries.” And, goodness knows, we’ve been tossing around the term “self-care” for a while. Earlier this month, I actually turned a Pinterest pin about “Types of Self-Care” into a small poster and hung it on my office wall.
Also, it doesn’t help me, personally, that it’s winter, albeit a mild one due to climate change (ugh!). I experience SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), usually in January and February, the most. My symptoms come in the form of trouble concentrating, sluggishness, agitation, and sleep issues. When it’s really bad, I feel like I roll through days in an anxiety-riddled fog. I am, without a doubt, a creature of summer. If you know me, you know that. If you’re in my inner-circle, you’ve probably bought me a blanket, a sweater, or winter weather accessories somewhere along the line. (Thanks again, by the way!)
BUT, this year, I’m re-starting work to reconnect my brain, emotions, spirit, and body. So, you can expect monthly blog posts from me again (whether you want them or not!).
I wish you all a 2020 of deep breaths, long sighs, time for reflection and connection, and much sunlight!
Excuse me now while I go sit under my sun lamp and journal, followed by playing 2020 Just Dance with the kid.
JANINE HARRISON 