For 2 years, going on 3 now, we have lived under tremendous stress. We’ve endured lock-downs, job losses, school closings, masks, double masks, vaccine mandates, elderly passing away totally alone and global totalitarianism, just to name a few.  

Like other Americans who came before us who endured WWI, The Great Depression and WWII, we have also suffered many spiritual and mental injuries caused by the current state of affairs over reactions, mismanagements and global political power grabs. What can we do now to heal our families and communities?  

Let me share with you a few simple changes we could all make to help with the healing process.  

Enjoy the wilderness  

There are so many things to do in middle Tennessee when it comes to the outdoors. The good thing for those us who live in Bedford County is we are positioned perfectly within the state to enjoy several state parks that are literally within an hour’s drive. Get out and take a walk or a hike. Ride your bike or simply watch the wildlife. All of these activities could bring healing.  

Unplug  

Put down that crazy phone or computer and turn off the TV, for goodness’ sake. For literally years now, you have been apart of a mass physiological fear experiment that is military grade. The media spews fear-porn relentlessly on a daily basis inducing panic within the masses. Otherwise known as “Mass formation Psychosis.” When you do watch or listen, do so with a dash of healthy skepticism and remember they make more money when you tune in to your “regularly scheduled programming.”  

Reconnect with friends and family  

If we truly want to heal, we must engage more with friends, family and strangers. How many of you have enjoyed a smile recently that someone gave you at the grocery store? The mask and all of the social distancing is and has destroyed our sense of community. So put the fear aside and say hello with a smile and watch that person light up with happiness. Human connection is essential for our healing, survival and happiness.  

See your doctor or dentist  

This goes without saying but getting things taken care of from a health perspective is paramount when achieving healing and happiness. So let’s get that tooth fixed that's been bothering you for 2 years now and give your doctor a call for a simple physical. You know you will feel better, once you do!  

Get cooking  

Who doesn’t enjoy a great meal? Like you, I have a special recipe or two and I enjoy sharing with friends and family. My specialty happens to be Applewood smoked BBQ Boston Butt and let me tell you it’s a crowd pleaser! I am sure you have one too! Get to cooking and have some people over and start making memories again. Food truly heals and connects us with others. We must continue to press forward in our healing process as our fellow American ancestors did in the past. Don’t ever give up hope because we can heal from this. We must heal to survive.