Breaking The Rules

How are you doing? What's happening in your world? What are you listening to, watching, reading? What's making your day better?

I have some announcements below, but first, a story.

Last week I went to Target (where I rarely go, even though I live a quarter mile away) for the second time in two weeks. My Amazon ban has been strong for a while, and even though Target isn't much better, I needed earplugs because my husband snores. The other time was for his last-minute birthday card, which I probably forgot to get because I hadn't been sleeping well due to his snoring!

Anyway. On the first trip, I chatted with one of the workers in the earplug aisle about the heat and it being too hot to ride his bike to work.

Last week, when I was there again, we crossed paths and he gave me a look like, don't I know you? I said I'd been in the week before and we'd chatted about the heat.

When he put it together, he said, "Well, nice to officially meet you," and stretched out his hand to shake mine. I reached back and by the time our hands were interlocked, I realized, Oh no! I'm not supposed to touch anyone!

You know what else was running through my head at the same time, even more clearly?

WOW, it feels so good touch someone. The rough texture of his skin, the firm grip of our hands, the meeting of our humanness through flesh and bone.

We both had on masks. It was a brief interaction. I used sanitizer and washed my hands at home as usual. I didn't feel worried or unsafe.

What I felt was longing and grief and loneliness.

For the loss of physical connection.
For the fear we have around each other now.
For ordinary moments.

I also feel gratitude.
Overall I am super connected with friends and loved ones. I don't live alone, so I do get physical contact. And for all the physical distancing, I'm also experiencing deepened heartfelt relationships near and far.

It's a bit of a washing machine of emotion! Maybe you relate?


I'd love to hear how you're doing. Below are some new ways to be together. Let's stay connected.

♥
Michelle

Michelle Marlahan
Where Self Care becomes Soul Care

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