This post was originally shared with Hook + Hold subscribers on March 15, 2020, the day the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic.
Words are important - no, they’re critical. Every syllable conjures emotion, every letter assembles into a meaning greater than itself.
And there are words that stop you in your tracks. A word like:
p a n d e m i c
It whizzes past reason and strikes fear in your core. Rattles you in a way you don’t understand and prefer not to explore.
Only 26 letters in the alphabet, and yet each holds immense power.
In this time of palpable uncertainty, we must combine letters into words that comfort, messages that inspire, and questions that seek clarity rather than statements that place blame.
When I look back and tell the story of this moment, I hope to do so knowing I communicated with grace because this much I know is true:
While craving assurance and leadership, I must focus only on that which I can control (mainly, mindset).
I need to take care of myself so I can take care of others.
I want to support my community while holding tight to my loved ones.
Lifting you up, wherever you are.