Guilty displeasures

The second wave has been hard, hasn’t it? Just when we thought things were getting better and the end was in sight, suddenly we are finding ourselves right where we started. Of course, it's worse this time, because of the toll that it is taking on the lives of people, but it is also because it feels like we are at the end of our ropes. We have been stuck at home, away from the people we love for too long. Humans are social animals at the end of the day, so how much longer can we endure?

We are scared and frustrated. But we are made to feel guilty about the fact that we are feeling so. Everyone around us seems to be hell-bent on invalidating our emotions because someone else out there has it worse than us. So, guilt garnishes the top of our cocktail of messed-up emotions.

Of course, I acknowledge the fact that we are privileged to be able to sit in the safety of my house, surrounded by family, with a roof over my head and food to satiate my hunger. I acknowledge my privilege. But also want to let y’all know that all the emotions you are feeling are valid. You are allowed to feel however you feel. You cannot control your emotions, which is why the parts of our brain which control logic and emotions are separate. You can be grateful for being safe in this pandemic and angry at the situation simultaneously. Being frustrated, scared, angry or upset, simply makes you human. And being human means that your feelings take center stage.

Emotions aren’t ruled by relativity and logic, they are absolute and natural. So I just wanted to remind you that however you are feeling is valid. But I also wanted to make an appeal to y’all, don’t let these emotions rule you. Try to find productive outlets for your negative energy and try not to become careless because of impatience. We have held out for so long, so let’s see this all the way through. Let’s do our part in this fight and stay at home. Let’s try to be there for each other and get through this together.

Yes, wallowing in self-pity won't make our situation better. But we also can't keep suppressing our emotions, it is simply not the healthy thing to do. If you keep bottling up your emotions, you never know when that volcano will explode. So complain if you want to, cry if it makes you feel better. And when you feel a little better, sip on some water and listen to some music. Remember, that even though the people who love us may not be able to physically be there with you, their love is something that no one can take away from you.

And don't forget to reach out to others. We are all lonely together, so you will be doing both of y'all a favour by doing so.

P.S.:I love you. I am proud of you and I hope that you are proud of yourself- living through a pandemic while keeping up with daily responsibilities is no small feat!

P.P.S.: Don’t forget to be kind to yourself, you are doing the best you can; You are living in confusing and scary times, so cut yourself some slack. <3

P.P.P.S.: Don't forget to steal a few smiles every now and then. :)