finding your people and your path

In July 2021, I was injured at work with a concussion. I feel like I talk about this all the time because I am thinking about it and experiencing it constantly. I’ve written about it in a newsletter, made postcard or two about it but I never can tell how much I've said.

For the past 6 months I have been slowly recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury (meaning I didn't black out). It has been wild, surprising, limiting, isolating, and has shifted so much of what I can expect of a day.

I have a partner who has been able to help with taking over some of the things I can’t always do and I've had friends to talk to but there is still a disconnect between my experience and what I can express. I’ve been able to talk occasionally with friends who have been or are currently going through a similar thing which helps. This week I met with a support group of other artist weirdos going through similar injuries and it was so wonderful to be in a group of people who can affirm that my experiences are valid. Talking with people about resources and tips and just listening made my whole week a little easier.

During our meeting, we introduce ourselves briefly and then mention one positive thing that helped us this week. It is not a saccharine affirmation, but a sliver of light in a dark and confusing time. For me, this week, I have reminded that a quiet forest walks can help reset my often over-stimulated brain. The grey days are easy on my eyes, there is plenty of shade on rare sunny days, but a light rain deters enough people that it can be so quiet, though I am a mile from my house. Though I am new to Portland, it has been a place I have visited for many years, and am grateful for being able to walk there. I forgot to tell my group this so here it is for you.

Many things can make us feel extra alone right now, so tell your people you love them, and reach out. Say hi. Keep going.