This year has tested us in ways that were, to many of us, unimaginable. What our mothers fought for was lost, and our children are growing up in a world that doesn’t recognize their autonomy.
But when despair enters your periphery, think about the tremendous victories our movement has experienced this year – from Kansas to Kentucky to right here in Rhode Island. Consider the strength of our community and the beauty in witnessing it come together in righteous anger.
Please also consider your responsibility to our community. And as the year draws to a close? Your biggest responsibility is to rest, relax, heal and connect with yourself, with those you love and with those who love you back.
It isn’t easy to rest when there’s so much work to be done, but rest is an essential part of any movement. It rejuvenates our minds and bodies, and allows us to bring our best selves to our pursuits. It keeps us from growing tired, overwhelmed and ill-equipped to handle life’s challenges with grace.
Self care isn’t a luxury. It’s a priority.
This season, we hope you will:
- Nourish yourself.
Bless your body with quality sleep and nutritious food. - Build your community.
Find the people who support your growth and make you feel good about who you are. - Prioritize your mental health.
Talk to a therapist or a pal or both. Support for your mental health is vital. - Acknowledge your emotions.
This time of year can be wonderful. It can also be stressful. It can be traumatic. Sometimes it can be all three at once. Those feelings aren’t negative–they’re part of the human experience. In this season of giving, make sure you’re also giving to yourself. - Step away.
Are your racist uncle’s opinions getting loud at the holiday gathering? Step outside and leave a voicemail or send an email to Senate President Ruggerio (222-6655, [email protected]) and House Speaker Shekarchi (222-2447, [email protected]). Tell them: “End the bans on health coverage for abortion. #PassTheEACA in 2023!” Bonus points if you tell Uncle Boomer what you were up to when you rejoin the party.
Self care can be simple. Mindfully take in a breath of winter air. Draw a boundary in this time of consumerism and family pressures. Feel the solid ground beneath your feet and know that your allies stand on it with you. Come beginning of January we will be back in it, but until then we rest.
