Nowadays, we are all trying to adjust to an alternative way of living. It’s a confusing and scary time for many. My purpose is not to debate medical or political views on the current pandemic. However, I would like to discuss change. Something everyone can relate to especially now. At this point, I have resolved to the fact that ‘it is what it is’ and try my hardest to make the best of an awful situation.
Change is never easy. Besides this new reality, I have recently had many changes in my own personal life. If you’ve read my previous posts… I’m a newlywed! As wonderful as it is, and I am thrilled to share my life with my love, and our kids, it’s definitely a major change! I thought packing up a house of over 20 years and moving away from my hometown, family and friends was difficult. However, I now have to learn how to blend two families together. Each of us have two teenagers and they are often on different schedules. At forty-something it is difficult to adapt into an unfamiliar environment with alternative ways of doing things and a new routine, or lack thereof. I’ve had to learn my way around town, help my kids adjust and find my new normal. I have been without my family (except standing 10 feet apart on Mother’s Day) and all my friends. I teach online for over 200, middle-schoolers and homeschool my daughter with special needs. Recent changes have proved very challenging!
I have learned to be flexible. (Or at least I’m working on it.) I remind myself often, my way is not the only way. Even though I’m used to ‘my way’ it doesn’t mean that I can’t be open to a fresh approach. Communication is crucial. Talking about how we feel, and what we expect leads to stress free days. I’ve learned that cooperation is necessary. Everyone has to pull their own weight, so to speak. Share the load of household chores, cooking and running the errands. We are good at that! I think we’re both glad it’s not all on either of us anymore. Living for years as single parents we had to do it all. Now we only do half of what we used to living apart. So that change was simple 😉 Something else I’ve learned is that understanding and tolerance are key in new situations. In my case, our home now has 6 unique personalities and moods. Four teenagers with differing opinions… God help me 😉 Accepting each other for who they are and showing kindness goes a long way. It is not always easy. But, I love my new family and they are worth the effort!
I guess the point I’m trying to make is that change is a part of life. Sometimes it’s because of a choice we have made and other times it’s forced upon us. In either case we can choose to complain and sulk or we can choose to make the best of an unexpected circumstance. Kindness is contagious. Communication is crucial. Stay safe. Stay well. And go ahead… Live Your Best Life!