This year’s Chicago spring and early summer was really dry. My plants in my garden suffered and I felt guilty for watering them so much with the hose. I heard from someone we had on average 3” less rain than what was expected by mid June. Luckily late June and early July more than made up for the mini drought. It has been so rainy in Chicago, and honestly I can’t complain.
This summer has been a bit tough for me, and some more unexpected challenges and emergencies have been thrown my way. It’s hard to see so many people seemingly having vibrant, exciting summers, when mine feels dampened and dark. When it rains, it pours, they say. Thanks to years of therapy, I’ve learned some healthy coping skills and reminders for tough times:
I honor all feelings, even the painful ones.
I am present with my needs. I ask myself what I need in each moment.
I remind myself that everything is temporary.
I find some small pockets of joy, if I feel up to it.
I send myself compassion and readjust expectations for my work. I am not a machine, but a person with changing needs, good days, and bad days.
During tough times, a familiar phrase comes to mind: “No rain, no flowers.” It reminds me that in order to appreciate good things, it’s also important to acknowledge and be present during hard times.
One of my very first Catdroool designs was a tshirt that had this phrase on it. In honor of this recent rain, and tough time, I’ve launched a redesign of this tee, and you can order one now through August 11 on Everpress.
I hope wherever you are in the world and whatever kind of summer you’re having that you’re present, kind to yourself, and finding pockets of joy.