When I think back to the chaos of 2020, I can’t help but marvel at how far I’ve come. It was a time when everything felt uncertain, and the walls of my life seemed to be closing in. The pandemic brought with it isolation, fear, and unexpected challenges, and I found myself grappling with struggles I never thought I’d face. Yet, amidst the chaos, two lifelines emerged that carried me through: creativity and community.
When Life Felt Daunting
In the early days of the pandemic, I was juggling more than I thought I could handle. My marriage was unraveling, I was figuring out how to teach remotely, and I was trying to help my 4 and 5 year-old daughters navigate their online classes. I was constantly stressed, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to keep it all together.
The world outside felt dangerous, and the only thing I wanted to do was hide away to feel safe. But at the same time, I craved connection. I missed the comfort of friends and family, the laughter, our cocktail dinners, and the feeling of belonging.
Leaning Into Creativity
In the absence of normalcy, I turned to creativity. The garden became my sanctuary—a space where I could breathe, regroup, and feel a sense of accomplishment. I started teaching classes from the garden, bringing a little beauty and grounding into an otherwise chaotic world.
Field trips with my daughters became our escape. We explored nature, marveled at bees, and turned everyday moments into adventures. At home, we did crafts—lots and lots of crafts. We painted, glued, and built, creating art that became an outlet for our emotions and a source of joy. I learned so much about my daughters during this time. I was grateful for the forced opportunity to send quality time with them. Never again will we be able to explore, laugh and play the way we did during the pandemic.
When I Needed Community Most
Just when I thought I couldn’t take another disappointment, when the weight of a failing marriage felt too heavy to bear, my friends showed up for me in a way I’ll never forget. They celebrated me. They threw me an intimate but beautiful birthday party, a moment that reminded me I was loved, valued, and seen.
And then came the most unexpected gift: a beehive. I’d been talking about wanting to become a beekeeper, and my friends made it happen. That thoughtful gesture gave me the push I needed to start my journey with beekeeping, a practice that soon became a source of peace, purpose, and fulfillment.
Creating Connections Through The ReUp Wellness
That experience inspired me to show up for others the way my friends had shown up for me. I hosted a virtual ReUp—a gathering designed to help others stay connected during a time when connection felt nearly impossible. It was a space to laugh, cry, and create together, even from a distance.
Through these moments, I found healing. Creativity gave me a way to express myself and process my emotions, and community reminded me that I didn’t have to carry my burdens alone.
Why Creativity and Community Matter
Looking back, I know I wouldn’t have made it through those days without the power of creativity and the support of my community. They saved my life. They gave me hope when I felt hopeless and strength when I felt weak.
In a world that often feels isolating, it’s so important to make space for connection and creativity. Whether it’s tending to a garden, crafting with loved ones, or simply showing up for a friend in need, these moments of joy and togetherness can be transformative.
What Saved You?
As we move into this new year, I encourage you to lean into creativity and community. Find the activities that light you up, and surround yourself with people who celebrate you. You never know how much of a difference it might make—not just for you, but for those around you.
Have you experienced the power of creativity and community in your own life? What outlets have given you the means to thrive during trying times? I’d love to hear your story. Share it in the comments below or on social media using #TheReUpWellness. Let’s continue building something beautiful together.
Until next time,
Stay creative and connected,
Shirvonne
The ReUp Wellness
"Wellness Rooted in Creativity and Community"
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