My presence is all that’s required.

Five and a half months ago, the gears shifted and our lives changed in ways we couldn’t have imagined. For nearly half a year, my family has been mostly together.
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Although there have been moments when I’ve lost my mind (like the time I discovered a dumpster-sized amount of soda cans and candy wrappers under *someone’s* bed AND on top of their closet...AND after being assured that their room was clean) I’ve loved having them close.
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Having them close makes me feel safe in an upended world. Having them close reminds me that I have a purpose and a responsibility. Having them close reminds me that I birthed some amazing individuals. They are part of me and also separate from me.
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As we enter a new season, I have mixed feelings. I want them to have the opportunity to go out into the world and live their lives, and I want to keep them close.
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One of the most significant things I’ve noticed during this time is that true moments of togetherness can’t be forced. Experiencing true joy, true connection, true flow, requires accepting that things will get messy, literally and figuratively, most of the time. At home, and in the world.
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I’m not the spin doctor, the puppet master, the mood manager. All that is required is my presence. All that is required is remembering to lead with love.
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And remembering to NOT look under the bed.