Like many of you, I have been struggling with my own fear and anxiety as this pandemic continues to unfold. As the director of Prairiewoods, I hope to make the best decisions to care for the people we serve and for the people who work here—aware that lives and livelihoods may hang in the balance. It is of vital importance to me that Prairiewoods and our mission not only survive this storm but find ways to thrive as we weather it.
It is clear to me that the only way for that to happen is together, as a community that values deepening our relationships with one another, self, Earth and the Source of All Being. But how do we act on these values at a time when we are learning to practice social isolation?
I’ve come to believe the only way is for us to work on staying centered in what we believe to be true:
- That being instruments of peace is our Franciscan calling, even in the midst of upheaval and chaos. Remembering and engaging with ourselves and others from a center of love and compassion is at the heart of Prairiewoods’ hospitality.
- That nature is healing, even in times of pandemic. Not only does getting outside boost immunity and offer a balm to our souls, but nature is our best teacher and a source of deep wisdom about how to be fully engaged members of the community of life.
- That we need one another for support, encouragement, and daily reminders that focusing on our own worries is not enough for a fulfilled or well-lived life.
Truly, we are in this together, all of us! In our best moments, we know that all life is precious—our own no more or less so than others.
Please watch the Prairiewoods Blog on our website and our Facebook page. We are coining the phrase #PanDeepening as we work to see this unique moment in history as an opportunity to go more deeply into all our relationships and interconnections. Each day, we will be posting activities, reflections and thoughts intended to help our community thrive, find ways to hold hope and become our own calm center in the storm that rages around us. We hope you will join us.
—Jenifer Hanson, Prairiewoods director