Choosing Hope Over Fear

A Pandemic Reflection.

It felt strange to feel joy during a time where most felt uncertainty and fear. I spent most of 2020 feeling anxious, and I finally felt free in 2021. I got vaccinated, abided by state laws, and followed CDC guidelines – why did I feel guilty for normal pre-COVID human activities like dining out? All I wanted to do was share photos of all the places that brought me joy without hesitation. Why was I concerned about upsetting others?

I didn’t even realize I was dimming myself to make others feel comfortable. I was afraid my actions would trigger those consumed by their anxiety and own limited beliefs. It felt unfair because I had done the work to learn how to manage my emotions during this difficult time, and it was frustrating to feel responsible for making others feel better, too. I’m tired of being pressured to engage in misery and pessimism when I truly believe there’s hope.

We can choose internalize negativity and think of the worst possible outcome, or we can take the steps to adjust to the new normal while staying hopeful that things will get better in time. It’s not ignorance or naïvety. It’s choosing to not let fear take over your life and choosing to live with hope of a better tomorrow.