That pesky muse must have headed south this winter because lately, I’ve struggled to come up with blog topics. Not only writing: Music, exercise, and winter projects remain elusive. On the bright side, I’m still sober (20 months now-huzzah!) but lack motivation for much besides the basics of living.
Life currently feels like a political (no) fun run through Mordor. Many of us watched at least one relationship deteriorate over the past four years. Personally, several friends have cut off all contact. Some of you may even have current relationships “on the brink.” You don’t have to live this way.
You don’t have to live this way.
Hear me out! I’ve watched people on both sides transform a passion for politics into an unhealthy obsession. Some ask, “Do you know what’s at stake?!” Yes, I do-the inability to enjoy life and possible loss of your inner circle.
Any of the following sound familiar?
- You think of politics first thing in the morning.
- You struggle to discuss topics other than politics.
- You struggle to engage those with whom you disagree (even if you refrain from politics).
- You “doom scroll” social media on a daily basis.
What can you do?
- Devote non-political time each day: Reading, exercise, meditation…What used to bring joy?
- Limit time on social media.
- Keep engaging in political discourse, but devote time to other topics.
And most important…
- Focus on what’s within your power. The rest is just negative chaos that ends up hurting you and the ones you love.
Focus on what’s within your power.
The current political climate generates anger and concern, but I refuse to let chaos live “rent free” in my head or destroy my inner circle-neither should you. This small circle of folks wants to be part of your life (warts and all) and will remain when the political junkie tribe is long gone.
Thanks for reading!
Cairn Hill Farms, LLC 
Hi Maggie
Things still running slow ? We’re still making day trips when we can, we start back up in March on shorter trip out of state. With Sophie gone ( our Scottie ) and getting rid of the big truck and fifth wheel we’re more flexible. More trips are scheduled just shorter duration, can’t stop moving forward I guess.
Please say “Hi ” to Trica. Miss you guys !
Budd
Hey Budd! Yes, work is still quite slow but busier than fall. Where are you headed next month?
Without fail, February is always a difficult month for me. I thought this year would be easier as we look forward to our first grandbaby by the end of the month, but I think that’s making the time tick slower! Without wrestling to look forward to every weekend and the juggling act required to keep up with school, sports, and work, things could be a lot worse. I think COVID has actually helped me to take the focus off those things that I’m missing now that my kids are graduated and focus more on what we can do to fill our open time. With all the restrictions on indoor gatherings, we have found that winter bonfires and “backyard” sledding have been a great way to stay connected to family and friends.
How funny that you wrote this while C was in labor! Enjoy, Grandma!