What's Saving My Life Right Now...

What is saving my life right now?

What a loaded question!
We’re now entering Year Two of the Coronavirus Pandemic. Although the vaccine is bringing lots of hope, so much of 2021 is still unknown. For those of us in the arts community, we’re already facing a year of closed theatres and cancelled festivals. There’s no sign of when live performing will make a comeback, and many in our industry are facing challenging questions about their future viability.

And we know we’re not alone.
Second year of pandemic, middle of winter, and back in lockdown.
Is this really anyone’s favourite moment?

And that’s why the question struck me so profoundly:

What’s saving your life right now?

I’m a superfan of the talented Anne Bogel - author, blogger, book lover, and all around lovely person to follow. She recently wrote her annual “What’s Saving My Life Right Now” blogpost.
As stated by Anne, the tradition was inspired by this:

“The idea comes from Barbara Brown Taylor’s wonderful memoir Leaving Church. In it, Taylor tells the story of when she was invited to speak at a gathering, and her host assigned the topic:
'Tell us what is saving your life right now.'"

In a time when we can so easily focus on what’s wrong,
this simple question asks us to focus on what’s right.

What are the small but profound things carrying you through this season?

What’s bringing you joy and peace in this moment?


Here are seven things saving my life right now:

#1. My Home

At the risk of sounding dramatic, I’m IN love with my home. I’m not kidding. I swoon over the stained glass gracing our front window. I sigh every time I realize my 108-year-old kitchen cupboards have fed generations. Even hidden under the snow, my colourful and fanciful garden fills me with unmitigated bliss. The whole house is a palette for all kinds of joy and creativity. I can’t think of any other place I’d rather be in lockdown.

#2. Books

So. Many. Books! Last year, I almost doubled my reading goal. I’m incredibly grateful for the talents of imaginative storytellers, and this generous amount of time to devour their creations. I've created a whole new set of reading goals this year and my To Be Read List is looooong…..

#3. Walks

Not hikes. Just walks. Sometimes in different locations, but mostly around the neighbourhood. Stretching my legs. Breathing fresh air. Smiling at strangers (even through our masks!) Admiring gardens and other front yard artistry. My day is lost without a good walk.

#4. Our Puppies

Unconditional love. Unlimited cuddles. Adorable beyond comprehension. And the way they dance every time it snows. How is anyone getting through this pandemic without pets???

#5. My Techno Parents

My parents are seniors who embrace technology. Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, live streaming, video recording - nothing is keeping them from staying social and connected. I can’t even tell you how incredibly grateful I am for this!

#6. #ShopLocal

One of the things I miss most about touring is stumbling over that amazing little cafe, tasting local delicacies, and coming home with a great story about a hidden treasure. This passion is well satisfied close to home these days. Long drives along the Niagara Parkway, followed by curbside pick-up or delivery are creating fun afternoons of exploration and discovery. We get the delight of new tastes and experiences, while also supporting our local creators and entrepreneurs.  

#7. Writing

I listed this as #7, but truthfully, it’s probably #1. Writing is a life source for me this year. It’s become a powerful creative focus, a place to channel so much of my passion for storytelling, planning, and dream-building. I’ve been keeping most of it private, but I’m hoping to share more with you in the coming months. Stay tuned… 

What are the things saving your life right now? 

Please share your thoughts in the comments below...