Softness.

I originally wrote this blog post sometime in 2022—but reminders to rest are timeless. I don’t want to change anything about it because sweet Granny Mars is no longer with us and remembering her from writing the original post made me emo. She was such a special little wizard, and I miss her every day.

“Take the nap. Build a nest of blankets, pillows, pets, and stuffies. Find your cozy. When you wake up, enjoy the comfy heat contrasting your homemade womb and the chilled air of your dwelling. Take note of how soft and happy your pets are. 

In my case, I have 2 cats and a dog. Mars is probably screeching because I accidentally disturbed her old bones. The Boy gives me stompies and I inhale his robust folds. He’s hefty and perfect. Sable is curled into my bent legs, a mlem on her face, her tail gently beginning to wag as she realizes I’m awake. 

Every day we exchange this energy; a time of softness, and pure joy. I am home to these 2 actual babies (Sable and Rune), and baby grandma (sickly sweet Mars). How lucky am I to be loved by them?

I’m also lucky to be indoors, in a safe neighborhood. I’m cool in the Summer and warm in the Winter. My life is full of fulfilled wants and needs. My family isn’t in danger. 

Yet my heart races and anxiety creeps from nowhere. Do more. Get out there and live. Travel. You’re wasting time. Work harder. Why aren’t you moving? Do something valuable. Be valuable. 

Enough. 

It’s okay to rest. 

It’s okay to not be okay. 

We are not alive to meet end goals designated by charts and graphs. You can live intentionally without “making the most” of everyday. 

It’s Winter. There’s war, disease, and a gnawing stillness begging us to slow down and think. 

How can you measure your productivity in a time that isn’t productive? None of this is normal. It’s life, and it’s happened before, but you don’t have to beat yourself up for not doing more. 

If you’re reading this, you’re alive, and that’s enough. 

Stay educated. Be kind. 

The only finish line is death.”