Life, lately, has not been easy. I’ve been moving slowly through a period of time that has been filled with a lot of loss and a lot of change. I keep waiting for life to feel normal again, to feel easy again. I want to find what I lost. I want the changes to be undone. I’m starting to accept, however, that my idea of “normal” is now going to be different. And it’s this new normal that is making me…well…sad.

I’m working very hard to keep this sadness at bay. I’m moving forward, making adjustments, and trying to keep up with all of these changes. Some days, however, all I can do is breathe, power through my day, and keep my chin up.

When my chin is up I notice the faces of those walking by. I smile to be polite and am reminded of how good it feels to smile.

When my chin is up my airway is open. I can breathe in deeply, inhaling fresh air that both settles my nerves and energizes my soul.

When my chin is up I see the sun. I soak in its warmth on my face, feeling thankful for the light, especially on my darker of days.

When my chin is up I notice the world around me. I see the beauty nature holds, even in winter, and I’m reminded that even the Earth takes time to rest and regenerate before it can grow again. 

When my chin is up I subconsciously also straighten my spine. I take up more space as I stand taller and prouder. I remember my worth. I remember my strength.

When my chin is up I know I’m going to figure this out. I have hope for the future. I have faith in myself.

Life, lately, has been hard. So I’m keeping my chin up.