I wonder how the next six months will evolve for CCSR when school ends on June 15th.

The first four months have unfolded well. The children and youth look forward to their revolving mental health breaks. They enjoy playing social and emotional games and feel safe expressing their feelings with guidance from the Mood Meter umbrellas. They appreciate my attention and reliability, knowing that I am outdoors waiting for them during school time. They are delighted to see each other outside when their schedules overlap. We love collaborating and creating together during our monthly service projects, a dose of purpose beyond home and academics!

The parents and neighbors are warm and supportive. People stop while walking their dogs and share their thoughts and opinions. I listen abundantly. The mail carrier, delivery drivers, and garbage crews are my friendly waving buddies. The weather has been fairly cooperative during the heart of winter, which gives me ample opportunity to practice my Wim Hof breathing techniques to combat the chilly, blustery air. And I have the privilege of being surrounded by nature and entertained by the spontaneity of starling murmuration and geese migration. I continue to flourish!

Virtual learning remains in place. Virtual fatigue has been permeated by national tragedy, turmoil, and turbulence at our nation’s Capitol. Listening to the children and youths’ reactions of fear, confusion, outrage, and sadness has been anguishing, yet levitating. I am inspired by their perspectives and resilience; they keep my realistic optimism for the future intact.