We have lived through so much in such a short amount of time. The pandemic and its gnawing aftermath are still fresh. Hatred and violence ride the headlines every single day. We are bombarded with over-opinionated voices that would rather spew with deaf ears than have an honest conversation. It’s hard.

On top of these struggles, our daily costs have become unbelievable. When will it end? Maybe never. Could it be that the surmounting turmoil has always existed? Perhaps technology’s grip is holding our heads under the water.

Trust yourself when you know that it is time to walk away. Trust the nudge of the restless nights and your lack of motivation. Turn yourself inside out and wake up to the joy that is within. Find hope in nature and comfort in family. Note every single miracle that you see. Find resilience in the sunrise and the sunset. Drink in the laughter and pause to create kindness. When you can no longer tolerate the emptiness, fill yourself with the little things. Embrace in an honest and complete hug with someone you love. Hold a hand that is younger than yours. That is where we need to be to find happiness. That is who we truly are.

Cathy Graham is director of Graceful Aging Wellness Center of Bethlen Communities, Ligonier, Pennsylvania, and a District 3000–HRFA member.