This is (the new) normal. This is life.

Dear Friends and Family,

I started writing Letters from Leslie because these are strange, isolating times and I feel the need to connect with you. I’ve included everyone in my personal address book, but if you don't want to get these letters, please scroll to the bottom and unsubscribe. We all have to take care of ourselves and each other in whatever way we can.

Today marks the beginning of a new month and, for me, the realization that this—what we are living in right now—is the new normal. There’s no point in waiting for it to all be over, for life to get back to normal. This is normal. This is life. And, we have no guarantee we will have anything other than what we have right now, in this very moment. 

A friend said to me, these are not the end times, but if they were, how would you want to spend them? 

That made me think. What do I value? What matters to me? How do I want to be in this world?

And, here’s what I came up with…

I’d want to spend my time:

1.     Being with my husband and daughter.

2.     Connecting with my friends and family.

3.     Taking in the beauty of oceans or lakes or mountains or deserts. 

4.     Creating something of truth or beauty or joy.

5.     Making amends.

6.     Helping others.

But, here’s what’s not on my list:

1.     Buying a new car, new house, new anything.

2.     Moving up the career ladder.

3.     Reaching fame and glory.

I’m sure I will have more thoughts on this in the days to come, but for now I have a lot to figure out, like, how I’m going to put my actions where my values are. So, until then, good night, sleep well, I’ll most likely see you in the morning.

Love, Leslie