In the weeks leading up to the shelter-in-place order in Idaho, deciding to close was a difficult decision. I so value seeing you all, talking with you face to face, seeing you progress, and watching everyone work as a community. Feeling as though that was slipping away was very difficult. Instead of wallowing though, I decided to act, to make the most of the situation. I immediately got supplies to clean up and remodel some things in the dojang, rooted out my hoarded bleach, and spent hours putting together quick videos to help people embrace practice at home. I then embraced Facebook, Instagram, our website, and other services like YouTube and Vimeo.
I have invested so much focus, effort, and time into figuring out how to keep us all connected and moving forward. Though I struggled a bit with technology and tend to rail against more tech in my life, I have really tried to be open to these platforms.
In the face of uncertainty, I choose to act. That is likely just a way I cope with my anxiety around situations. But I do believe creating ways that empower each of us to demonstrate control over our lives are beneficial. This situation in part is so stressful because so many of us have been rendered useless, or so it feels. Yet, I would like to invite you all to explore ways you can be helpful? Staying home is saving lives, sewing masks, learning new things, diving into books, encouraging responsible and empathetic actions, running errands for those who are in the most danger, cleaning your house and car, and the list goes on - these are all ways in which you are wearing your hero cape.
How is practice at home going? What scares or worries you? What can you control? How are you a hero to your community?
Share you reflections with us.
Stay healthy and smart.
Love to all of you,
Master Staup