This Friday marks the Fourth of July. And like many Americans, I’m finding it difficult to celebrate in the usual way.
On one hand, the headlines and unfolding events are deeply troubling. On the other, I see millions of people rising to meet the moment—showing up, speaking out, and standing up for the America we believe in: one rooted in democracy, fairness, and decency.
Personally, I’ve participated in six rallies so far this year. One of the most moving was the June 14 “No Kings Day” human banner at Ocean Beach. I proudly stood in the “G.”
In times of such uncertainty, injustice, and division, it’s easy to feel disheartened. But as futurist Barbara Marx Hubbard reminds us:
“Crisis is an evolutionary driver. It is a signal that the old order is no longer adequate and that a new order is required.”
Maybe this year, instead of a celebration that glosses over complexity, we’re being called into something deeper: a conscious evolution. A chance to reflect, reimagine, and recommit to a future that truly serves us all.
Without this kind of showing up, hope dims. But when we engage—when we speak, act, connect—we breathe life into democracy. The Fourth of July marks the beginning of a bold experiment in self-governance. It’s still unfolding, and our voices are vital to its continued evolution.
Within each of us lives a deep resiliency. We carry an inner compass—a source of truth, energy, and sustenance that can guide us through challenge and change. And right now, we need it more than ever.
The post I’m sharing with you today is a celebration of that very spark—our ability to bloom, even now. Perhaps “these times” are a kind of birth: messy, painful, and uncertain, but full of possibility for a new way of being, both individually and collectively.
I invite you to read and share the post: Five Ways to Bloom Even in These Times.
May this Fourth of July find you among friends, honoring not just where we’ve been—but where we can grow.
With blessings,
Glenna
Five Ways to Bloom Even in These Times
Are you feeling depleted by the state of the world? Stressed by the sheer velocity of change? You’re not alone. Nor are you powerless. These five strategies are reminders that even now, we can all bloom. We can all thrive.
Five ways to keep yourself thriving even during these stressful times:
- Feed your soul
Nurture yourself from within. Feed your soul with nature, whatever gives you joy, calms your being or helps you stand in awe of the beauty around us. Take time, schedule it if you need to, to build your inner resources.
- Prioritize your health and physical wellbeing
Identify what you need to do to keep your physical “vehicle on the road” and get it done. Consistency is important. If walking is easier some days than going to the gym, then combine a walk with openness to nature’s healing balm. Taking care of ourselves physically is an important strategy to combat an overabundance of stress-inducing cortisol.
- Bloom where you are planted
Contributing as much as we can to the overall good in the communities in which we find ourselves is an important thriving tool for ourselves. Community, whether you find it at work and in your neighborhood, provides connection. Connection helps us thrive. Plus doing things for others helps us feel better about ourselves.
- Reinforce relationships
Spend time with family, friends and neighbors. Reach out and reinforce these life affirming connections. It is shocking how prevalent loneliness is in our country. We’ve got these smart phones. Let’s use them to connect. To talk with those far away. Or put them down and meet face to face whenever possible. The point is connection. We have the tools.
- Contribute to the vision of America you wish to experience
What is the vision of America you wish to experience? Where can you help make that happen? Lots of options abound to participate including attending a protest, contributing to a cause you believe reinforces your vision, voicing your thoughts to your representatives, and supporting candidates whose platforms reinforce your vision. Even a little action item each week will help reinforce a personal sense of empowerment and thus, thriving.
AFFIRMATION
Deep within myself is a well spring of Life. Energy. Grace. I take this moment for myself. Reconnecting to that place of wellbeing within me. I breathe deeply into it, my heart, myself. Acknowledging that Love is the ultimate energy of Life, I allow myself to feel it. Here now within me. In those I love. In my family, friends, community, and work. I acknowledge all those working for good in our country and world. I am so grateful for all the wonderful ways in which people are showing up for each other right now. I pledge to show up for myself and my own ability to thrive and bless those around me. I am thankful for this thing called Life!
