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The sky outside my window is completely gray. To say it is overcast would be an understatement. In a place where the sun shines every day, these overcast skies feel particularly oppressive. 

They may feel more that way because the overcast is not the result of clouds. Rather, the skies are filled with smoke from the fires burning across LA. As of this writing there are four designated fires. 

The smoke has piled up against the mountains surrounding Tucson and making the day feel dark and surreal. Their presence speaks to me of an unfolding tragedy in California. Homes are being completely burned to the ground. People are abandoning cars and walking or running to get out ahead of encroaching flames.  The toll on families and businesses is still being counted. Pets and wildlife are suffering too. The flames are gobbling up everything in their path. 

On a larger scale, environmental losses are all around us. 

Fire, too much water or not enough. Cold stretching into the deep south, high winds, plummeting temperatures or heavy snowfall. People continue to be affected around the world – not just here in the United States. 

We could talk endlessly about the conditions, the ways the environmental issues have been politicized and the efforts of many to help our dear planet. We can put into practice strategies we know – recycling, conserving energy in our homes, practicing mindful use of water. I would propose that there is also a deep need for mourning. 

What if we became better, more mindful mourners? 

Could we name and acknowledge our sense of loss over the environment. Could we specifically name the feelings – loss, anger, regret, fear, frustration, mingled with hope and glimpses of positive things.  

Having collaborated with a conservation group this past year, I’m increasingly aware of how many of us mourn the losses of the world around us. Changing conditions leave us wondering what will happen next. How will we cope with rising temperatures, drought, flooding coastlines and all kinds of collateral losses. What is our world becoming? 

The truth is, we cannot live too far forward. 

As we face into the world as it is and seems to be becoming, we still have personal choices. One choice is to notice and honor our feelings. All of them. Another is to recognize the toll that worry and stress exact on us – our bodies and spirits. We can only choose how we respond and how we live our lives on a daily basis. 

We can take care to seek encouragement and courage. We can keep our eyes and hearts open for glimmers – hopeful glimpses, things that help us tap into our joy. We get to be of good courage when and where we can. We can also encourage one another. 

In the present, we are invited into a deeper reflection. What is most important now? How can you or I live with meaning in uncertain times? What are you most hopeful about? What are you curious about? How will you manifest your curiosity towards the life you want to live in this present moment? 

I have one life and one chance to make it count for something… My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference.    –Jimmy Carter 

Collaborating with a life transitions coach is a great way to tap into your resilience tools. With the encouragement of a coach, you can explore your life with curiosity. You can find ways to manifest what it is you desire. A coach is a good sounding board, a supporter, encourager, an accountability partner and an assistant in setting the boundaries you need for living your personal transition. Check out the free discovery sessions available on this site. Or, if you feel ready, try the Live the Questions single coaching session – a great way to get your feet wet with coaching. 

A watershed moments coach can come alongside your experience of grief and loss providing support, encouragement, education about the nature of grief and insight that can assist you as you mourn. Collaborating with a coach is an investment in finding your way forward after a significant life change.  Connect with us for a brief introductory conversation where we will explore whether we are a fit for your current grief needs.  Click here to schedule a no-charge, 20-minute conversation where we will learn more about one another.