Sanity in Insane Times

Finding ways to keep hope alive

Like most everyone I know, I have been dealing with a lot of diffuse anxiety lately. A pervasive sense of dread that weighs me down every day, and all through the night.

The world is terrifying. Pandemics, wars, plane crashes, terrorism.

And the world’s richest man is currently taking over the US government.

It’s a lot.

Which is why I have been seeking solace wherever I can find it. When my grandson isn’t here, it can be hard to find a source of joy and normality. But I live in a natural and rural place. If I turn off the TV and put down my devices, I can sit back and watch the birds at the feeders.

Birds are endlessly entertaining and incredibly beautiful. I’m learning a lot from them, a lot about life and how to maneuver through it with a sense of calm.

For example, the chickadees spend all day zooming to grab one seed, one sunflower seed, and then flit back off to eat it. They never tire, they never give up. When I come outside to refill the feeders, some of them land on it and yell at me while I scoop the seeds. “Hurry up already!! We’re starved!” I can’t help but smile.

And I love the way they bravely chase off the bluejays. They seem to have no idea of how small and…