Thoughts on Rest and Resiliency

I just returned from three weeks in Michigan and Canada with various iterations of my family. There were times the group swelled past 20, but mostly we were a dozen or so, with ages ranging from mid-teens to late 70s. The first week was a family memorial service, but after that, we had little to do besides swim, play card and talk.

It's been four years since we've gathered, and thought I knew I missed everyone, I didn't realize how much I needed this time. It's been especially tough to go so long without seeing my sister, who lives in Sydney, Australia.

As my daughter and I made our way home from the Midwest, the last three weeks sank in. I felt good, really good, despite the 18 hours (!!) of travel. I felt like...me. It's been a while. All the upheaval of the last few years has thrown me off, and it took this family vacation to realize just how much it's affected me.

Today, after weeks of sleeping on lumpy rental beds, I woke up at home feeling energetic and curious but also a little wary. In case you haven't heard, the world is burning, and that's not going to change anytime soon. Am I ready to face it again? How can I hang onto my energy and curiosity--central parts of me--without getting overwhelmed?

My sister and I discussed this topic while lounging and looking out over Lake Huron. She's a big proponent of meditation, and my step-sister-in-law finds comfort in prayer. I'm still finding my own way, but I know at least part of my answer comes from writing. Any thoughts on finding balance and resiliency in today's world are welcome. :)