Most journeys of any substantial distance or great importance have moments of value, and moments I could have done without. Seems reasonable to expect it would be so, simply considering the statistical improbability that any journey would be utterly lovely, and without challenge, from start to finish.

Metaphorically speaking

Yesterday started well, but for the headache I woke with…which evolved into something very like ‘morning sickness’ and proceeded to hot flashes and heavy sweating somewhat later, followed by a vague sensation of anger that hadn’t yet erupted, which lingered with the headache for much of the remainder of the day. It entirely sucked. Other than how I felt subjectively (body and mind) it seemed in all respects to be a nice day.  Hormone Hell.  I finally admitted I just ‘wasn’t there’ with a good day, myself, and took care of me with every tool I have at hand these days.

It can be so simple.

1. I changed my environment; heading for the most emotionally safe space I could (in this case, home).

2. I took steps to relax; a shower, comfy clothes, yoga, a nice cup of herb tea, selected with care to ease symptoms, where possible.

3. I pursued an intellectually engaging distraction; reading and study in a current area of great interest.

4. Meditation – and this being the ‘favorite wrench’ in my tool box, I did it several times, as needed, no timer.

5. Got some space. I talked over explicit boundaries with my at-home partner and ensured that we both got the space we needed to deal with my unpredictable hormones and temperament.

6. Utterly without guilt got the rest and sleep I clearly needed, crashing earlier than usual, and sleeping soundly through the night almost until my alarm went off.

The day ended well, and by ‘well’ I mean I didn’t throw a childish tantrum, having a screaming fit of rage, alienate myself from every reasonable person I know, or cry myself to sleep.  It was a quiet evening, spent gently.

The basics matter.

I woke this morning in a very different place: calm, content, mostly pain-free, relaxed, and well-rested.  The world looks very different than it did through hormone colored lens. I’m glad I’m not there, today.

Today is a new day, and so far a lovely one. My coffee is hot, and black, and somehow ‘just right’. I feel content and I feel the tug of a smile at the corners of my lips; a nice start to the day.  I feel alert and eager to take on the day, to commit to the moment, to take on new projects… I feel inspired.  Today is a good day to be the best of who I am, unconcerned that a moment of humanity may reveal me, flawed, vulnerable.  Today is a good day to pursue dreams and share conversations with strangers. Today is a good day to say ‘yes’ to life and love. Today is a good day to be kind. Today is a good day to change the world.