Embracing Health, Hope, and Humanity During Times of Change and Crisis 🙏🧘♀️🌈
Discover the healing power of nature, find hope in times of change, and embrace humanity through shared experiences in your community.
Hello travelers, dedicated voters, and defenders of democracy,
When everything we love is on the line, we must take care of ourselves, especially after facing a devastating loss, such as the one we experienced this week during the election.
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Steps for Self-Care and Healing
Practice self-care: Give yourself space for the grieving process. Mourning is an important step in organizing. If possible, celebrate at least one win. Give yourself and others time to feel, to heal, and to take care. We are fragile, and it's very important to mourn and seek support if needed. You are not alone.
Express gratitude: This week, I am grateful for so much—my family, friends, and everyone on this life journey. A walk among the beautiful trees and fall foliage in Oregon. Leaders I respect who will continue to lead and fight for a future to believe in, including Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont, elected to his fourth term in office, and Senator Jeff Merkley from Oregon.
Get outside and experience the healing power of nature: Take time to connect with the natural world around you. In moments of stress and anxiety, nature offers a sanctuary. The calming effects of the outdoors, the fresh air, and the stunning landscapes of Oregon have been a source of healing for me. Taking a walk in nature, practicing mindfulness, and connecting with loved ones are simple yet powerful ways to care for our mental health.
A Journey of Discovery in Oregon
I want to express my deep appreciation for Senator Jeff Merkley for all that he does for Oregon. His dedication to our state and its people is truly inspiring. I also want to thank him for his support during my journey with Bernie Sanders when he was the first Senator to endorse Bernie in 2016.
I first learned about Senator Merkley during My Journey with Bernie. Since I moved to Oregon in 2020, I have learned how much he walks the talk for progressive values and all the people in Oregon.
This year, I joined his call to participate in the Oregon Treasure Quest, and learn about the people and places and discover all the incredible history, nature, and people.
Finding People and Places in Oregon Oregon
I visited ten counties to qualify as an Oregon Ranger and had the opportunity to learn about the people, places, and history in Oregon, and my community, connecting with fellow Oregonians and the potential for growth and understanding despite the divisions.
During my journey, Cannon Beach and the abundant nature and beauty of the Pacific Ocean stood out to me. Just breathing the fresh ocean air made me feel that my blood pressure was normalizing. The birds, the fresh air, and the crashing surf of the ocean were truly breathtaking.
My favorite stop was Hayward Field in Lane County. The rich history of Track Town, Oregon, and the site of numerous remarkable track and field events—from college championships to Olympic trials and international world championships—made Hayward Field a must-place to visit. Univerity of Oregon legendary track coach Bill Bowerman and his star athletes, like Steve Prefontaine. Finding hope and inspiration at Hayward Field was easy, with all the incredible runners and coaching that are so inspiring.
One funny thing happened occurred when I visited Old Town St. Helens, or Halloweentown. I've visited in the past and it's awesome with all the pumpkins and Halloween setting based on the film Halloweentown, but this year, when I visited, it was under construction, so I did not find any pumpkins.
I also learned a lot about the rich history of Oregon City. Much of Oregon City's importance lies in its early history as the first permanent Euro-American settlement in the Willamette Valley and the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains. Founded in 1829 and incorporated in 1844, it first became the home to fur traders and missionaries. The complicated history of Oregon, including the original Indigenous people and the pioneers of the Oregon Trail, reminds us of the diverse heritage that shapes our community. Learning about our past helps me appreciate our state's journey and fosters unity. The history of Oregon is marked by the experiences of the original indigenous people, who faced displacement and hardship as settlers moved westward. The Oregon Trail brought pioneers seeking new opportunities but also led to conflicts and challenges. Addressing these issues with humanity and support for all is essential to building a better community for everyone.
Here are some of the amazing places I've explored in Oregon this year.
Oregon City Municipal Elevator, Clackamas County
Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, Washington County
International Rose Test Garden, Multnomah County
Paddle the Tualatin River Trail, Washington County
Hayward Field, Lane County
Historic McMinnville, Yamhill County
Albany Carousel, Linn County
Old Town St. Helens, Halloweentown, Columbia County
William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge, Benton County
Cannon Beach Haystack Rock, Clatsop County
Oregon Film Museum, Astoria, Clatsop County
My Journey Continues
In these times of change, let's remember the importance of self-care, the reasons we need to be grateful, and the healing power of nature.
How will you take care of yourself?
What are you grateful for?
How will you get outside and experience the healing power of nature?
I am still an optimist and will continue to write, organize, and support change for good for all people.
History offers hope. Let's explore, learn, and share our experiences, building a stronger, more connected community, and a future to believe in for all.
