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One of the most valuable things I've learned from my own life is that when I can't control something, the only other alternative is to embrace it and look for the gemstones.

And by that I mean, looking for the wealth within each and every experience.

At first the wealth might not be visible to me, but eventually I do find it.

In the past I've shared several posts about the power that comes from embracing challenging experiences. And I truly believe that. And not simply because it just sounds good. I believe that because I have lived it. I've embraced some pretty scary and challenging things that have come my way because I had no other choice. But in doing so, I discovered the value.

I am not going to talk about all the panic, fear, and inconvenience that's going on not only here in the USA, but all over the world, because there are enough people talking about that. What I'm going to share here today is how I'm staying positive.

Let me start by saying that I am far from naive to what's going on at the moment. Nor am I in denial. What I am saying, though, is that I have a choice in how I perceive it and how I experience it.

Contrary to most of America, I'm not self-isolating in my apartment day and night, avoiding the rest of the population. I'm definitely abiding by all public health precautions, absolutely, but I am not freaking out or paranoid about being outdoors or indoors with other people.

I'm also not watching the news 24/7. I spend about 30 minutes in the morning watching the news, and another 30 mins at night. But that's it. There is a difference between staying informed, and knowing when to pull yourself away from all the drama perpetuated by the media. I definitely want to know what's going on, yes, however I'm not interested in the dramatic embellishments that you can so blatantly hear behind the voice of every single news anchor.

What we're experiencing right now in the world, I am choosing to use as a means to see beyond what is happening. I'm trying to see what this is revealing to me and how I can best serve. Because quite frankly, that's all I have the power to do. I have no control over this virus, or know its full truth.

No one does.

So, I have a choice. I can't either choose to partake in all the panic and fear of the unknown, or I can choose to stay aware, but detach myself from the doom and gloom vibes.

And that's exactly what I'm doing.

You see, in a situation such as this, I always ask myself the question, "What does panic and fear contribute to not only my own experience, but to the experience of others?"

And the answer is always, "Nothing."

I also find that when I detach myself from the drama, I have more energy and clarity to see how I can make the best of any situation.

I would like to share with you some of the things I've been noticing through this experience, which I think is a wake-up call on so many different levels:

- I've witnessed acts of compassion, kindness, and hope.
- I've witnessed much more face-to-face communication between people.
- I've noticed more consciousness.
- I've noticed a softening of the human heart.
- I've noticed people saying "Please" and "Thank you" to each other.

And those things are very much the same things I've noticed within myself.

I'm actually smiling more at people on the streets, nodding my head, waving, and saying hello. And in turn, those people are responding in the same way.

I feel a deep softening within my heart.

I've always been a positive person, yet I feel even more positive at this time.

I feel more creative.

I feel more adaptable.

I feel more grateful.

I feel more courageous of the unknown.

I know this may sound extremely odd, but I feel stronger and more connected because this experience is causing me to feel as though I want to move closer to people, not farther away.

During this time, I am spending part of my days outdoors, sitting in our parks enjoying the fresh air and sunlight. I find that being within nature is a great "grounding" source.

Another thing I've been doing is watching a lot of movies that are either funny or uplifting, just to keep my mind and my heart light.

Music too. I've been listening to either inspirational music, or music that makes me want to get up and dance around my apartment. The other day I was shopping in Trader Joe's listening to music on my phone with my earbuds and suddenly caught myself dancing in the produce section. One of the employees spotted me and began laughing. She said, "Thanks...I needed that!"

Yes, it is at times like this that I have to be very mindful of what I expose myself to because I need to remain open and clear.

Again, I am in no way naive or in denial of what's going on in the world. But for me, I can't simply look at what's happening and see it only as something to be afraid of.

No way.

There are gemstones within this virus.

Many of them.

And that's what I choose to focus on.

💗 to you all!

----------------------------------------------------

I would like to conclude this post with a video clip that I'm sure many of you have already seen. Gosh, I can't believe I made this back in 2012!

Last week when I watched it again after so many years, it made me laugh.

I hope it does the same for you.

And ironically, I think the title of this song is so fitting for what's going on in the world right now: "I Will Survive."

Because we will survive...


*for those of you who subscribe to my posts via email, here is the link to the video: click here.

31 comments:

  1. Valerie DaggattFriday, March 20, 2020

    Oh what a happy post this is. I enjoyed joining in with singing and dancing. Honestly!
    Thank you, Ron, for being cheerful when the world is just the opposite. I don't feel any different but I keep reading about people needing to check on the old folk who live alone. I don't care much either way because me and the cat are fine. So what if I don't see folk. As you rightly say, I will survive.

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  2. I have also been getting out to different parks now more than ever. We've been fortunate that the weather has been decent. I'm trying to do a lot of self care, which for me involves reading, green tea and dark chocolate!

    I use the NextDoor app and the kindness of strangers has been amazing. Everything from people volunteering to pick up meds for the elderly to little kids in our neighborhood drawing pictures with a different theme every day to hang on their front door so their friends can see it when taking a walk.

    Thanks for posting, Ron. I hope you have an uplifting weekend. XO, virtual of course!

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  3. Ron, THANK YOU for this post! I agree, we need to keep a level head as we move through this and not panic because that does nothing. Great idea about watching comedies and listening to upbeat music! I never saw your dance video before. It's hilarious! What a good dancer you are!

    Take care and thank you for your words today. X

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  4. Good morning Valerie!

    I decided to share this post because I feel there needs to be some "lightening up" during this serious time in the world. Yes, we need to take care and follow health precautions, but we also need to take care of our mental and emotion self as well.

    I'm actually accomplishing a lot during this time. I'm writing, editing photos, cleaning my apartment, meditating, doing yoga, talking to friends on the phone, and taking at least one walk per day outside, just to get some fresh air.

    Happy to read that you and Charlie are fine and doing well.

    Have faaaaaaaaabulous weekend, my friend!

    X to you and Charlie

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  5. "I have also been getting out to different parks now more than ever."

    I know, me too, because it seems to clear my mind and gets my body moving. I've also been stopping by the grocery store every few days to stock up on things (canned goods, pasta, produce, paper goods).

    "I'm trying to do a lot of self care, which for me involves reading, green tea and dark chocolate!"

    HA! OMG....I LOVE that! I need to get more dark chocolate, thanks for reminding me. I'm doing the same thing --- meditating, yoga, taking vitamin supplements to keep my immune system healthy, and eating well.

    Yes, hasn't the kindness of strangers been AMAZING? Even here in the city, where most people don't even look at one another, people are reaching out to assist each other and just being kinder. One of the food stores I shop at (Mom's Organic Market) has even lowered many their prices so that people will have food to eat during this time. I think that was so nice of them!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Have a faaaaaaaabulous weekend!

    X

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  6. You are soooooooo welcome, Candice!

    I one of those people who tries to always stay positive during challenging times. This is a serious matter, yes, but it doesn't help to panic and be negative. I try to make the best of things.

    Glad you enjoyed the video. HA! I can't believe I made that EIGHT years ago?!? I love that song!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Have a grrrrrreat weekend!

    X

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  7. http://ladyfi.wordpress.comFriday, March 20, 2020

    Yes - I agree! The panic and the global recession are frightening - and I really wish the media would take responsibility for reporting the facts and not the drama. Love love that shot of you on that big ole red chair. Thank you for the smiles.

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  8. Bravo, Ron! I, too, naturally gravitate toward positivity, but this virus and its self-quarantining is coming too soon on the heels of Dallas's death. I'm trying, but it's not easy! Perhaps being an introvert and a faith-filled individual is saving me. After all, I can still read, write, keep in touch online with friends, play and listen to music, pray, bead jewelry, and all the other things that keep me grounded.


    At this time, I'm especially concerned over my elderly mom. I can't afford to do anything to bring illness into the home and take a chance she'll catch it. Thus, I'm washing my hands, staying away from crowds, and all the rest. Thanks for your uplifting post -- you're right, we will survive! xo

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  9. Thanks for this Ron!! It's been madness here in Orlando but we have an Artist helping Artist page I shared your blog on. Miss and love you. I'll call to chat soon <3

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  10. I'm taking the same approach as you, Ron. Being cautious but certainly not self-isolating. We have so many great, wide-open outdoor spaces here, I find myself drawn to them more than ever before. Can't catch the virus when there are only three other people spread out over 71,000 acres!

    The other day I bought a push broom from a hardware store. When the cashier handed me my receipt, I asked if I could have a bag for it. She automatically started reaching for one beneath the counter and then stopped. It's a six-foot push broom, lol! I was just trying to spread a little humor in these troubling times.

    Keep positive and happy. Those things are contagious!

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  11. Hilda Phillips CatheyFriday, March 20, 2020

    Hi Ron!!!!! My best stage wife ever (from Falsettos) shared your information with your Falsettos wife and me (notice how I’m being discreet with my people references) and I just had to check you out!!! It is SO good to see you again! You are such an amazing friend and I miss you. I watched your “I Will Survive” video and I couldn’t stop smiling and laughing. I try to keep up with this virus mess and like you, I don’t watch it all day long. I’ve been enjoying old game shows, old TV shows, computer games, and being in the backyard with the dogs. I don’t avoid going to the grocery store - it’s just about one of the only kind of stores still open down here! Please keep keeping on! I love you! Hilda

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  12. Hey, buddy, thanks so much for writing this post. It's just what the doctor ordered.

    Unlike you, I tend to be more negative and this coronavirus thing is taking me for a real ride. I keep telling myself that fear and anxiety will only make things worse, but I'm not getting my own message.

    Good thing I have you in my life. Shine on, you crazy diamond and keep dancing in the produce section. This battered planet needs your special brand of crazy.

    We will survive!

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  13. "....and I really wish the media would take responsibility for reporting the facts and not the drama."

    A-MEN, Fiona! Yes! So much of what they report is tainted with so much melodrama. As anchors, they should be doing just that....reporting the facts, not drama embellishments.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. And thanks also for being such an inspiration of positivity on your own blog.

    Have a grrrrreat weekend!
    X

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  14. Hey there Debbie, I know my friend, all of this is happening directly after the loss of Dallas so I know how difficult it must be. It's like one thing after the other, so it's not at all easy.

    "Perhaps being an introvert and a faith-filled individual is saving me. After all, I can still read, write, keep in touch online with friends, play and listen to music, pray, bead jewelry, and all the other things that keep me grounded."

    Yes, me as well. And I think that is what's been keeping me calm and positive. I've been meditating every day, and also doing some yoga and exercise (dancing around my apartment), as a means of self-care so that I stay healthy and positive.

    And yes, there is great concern when it comes to the elderly, so I know what you mean. They are the most vulnerable at this time. Washing your hands and staying away from crowds is such are wise things to do. Even me, I'm very aware of washing my hands and not touching my face. I also carry a bottle of hand sanitizer spray in my backpack, just as a precaution.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Stay well and have a great weekend!

    ((((((((((((((((((((( YOU )))))))))))))))))))))

    X

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  15. Hellooooooooo there Laurel! OMG...it's so great to see you!!!

    Yes, I thinks it's pretty much madness everywhere, which is why I am trying very hard to stay positive, so that I don't move into that myself. I want to be aware, but I don't want to panic so that I'm useless.

    Thank you SOOOOOOOOOO MUCH for stopping by and for sharing this post.

    Yes, call whenever you feel. Text me to let me know what days and times would be good for you.

    Take care, my friend. Love and miss you too!

    X

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  16. Mark, I had a feeling you were on the same page as me because of our mutual trait of always staying positive and making the most out of lemons.

    " We have so many great, wide-open outdoor spaces here, I find myself drawn to them more than ever before. Can't catch the virus when there are only three other people spread out over 71,000 acres!"

    I know, there is no way in HELL I could stay indoors if I lived where you are. It's just too beautiful. And besides, I feel like those kinds of areas are very healthy to be surrounded in because of all that magnificent NATURE.

    "I asked if I could have a bag for it. She automatically started reaching for one beneath the counter and then stopped. It's a six-foot push broom, lol! I was just trying to spread a little humor in these troubling times."

    HA! OMG...that made me laugh out loud! See...that's what I mean...we have to try and spread some humor during these troubling times.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. And thanks for adding your GREAT energy to this post! Have a faaaaaaaaabulous weekend!

    X to you and Tara

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  17. OH. MY. GOD.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    OH. MY. GOD.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    It's HILDA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    It is BEYOND fabulous to see your comment!

    (((((((((((((((((((( YOU ))))))))))))))))))))))

    And please thank your best stage wife ever (from Falsettos) for sharing this post with my Falsettos with and you!!!! And yes, I know exactly who you're referring too. HA!

    Thank you, and it so good to see you as well! I made that video like EIGHT years ago one day when I was bore sitting around my apartment. I just put the music on, turned on my camcorder, and lip synced to one of my all-time favorite songs.

    Yes, me too. I've been watching a lot of old "Golden Girls" and "Designing Women" shows and laughing my ass off. Old movies, as well.

    I shop at Trader Joe's here in Philly. In fact, I just came back from there this minute. I love Trader Joe's. Not only because of the great prices, but also because it's a happy place to shop.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a faaaaaaabulous weekend!

    Love you too!

    X

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  18. Ron, my husband and I read this post together and not only did we laugh (especially at your video) but we were also very moved by your words. You express yourself SO WELL!

    I'm more like you, I don't buy into the drama and am not freaking out about all this. My husband on the other hand is very nervous and freaking out. We balance each other very well LOL! I love your idea about watching funny movies and listening to upbeat music. You're right, those things really make a difference in our mood and attitude.

    Thank you so much for sharing this, dear man. Much needed. And much appreciated.

    X

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  19. Ron, my husband and I read this post together and not only did we laugh (especially at your video) but we were also very moved by your words. You express yourself SO WELL!

    I'm more like you, I don't buy into the drama and am not freaking out about all this. My husband on the other hand is very nervous and freaking out. We balance each other very well LOL! I love your idea about watching funny movies and listening to upbeat music. You're right, those things really make a difference in our mood and attitude.

    Thank you so much for sharing this, dear man. It is much needed. And much appreciated.

    X

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  20. A fantastic mindset to have during these time...especially since the media is doing such a great job whipping up panic and fear. Yes, there is plenty to be concerned about with the virus. Yes, we need to adhere to guidelines to keep people safe and not overwhelm our health care industry. We need to reach out to the elderly and help them. That said, nothing keeps us from smiling at each other, enjoying a sunrise/sunset/spring flowers/sunshine. The earth will not be canceled and we can find much to do that doesn't involve risking our or another's health. Families will actually get to know each other better. Innovation will rise. Heck, many will learn how to cook at home! :-) Thanks for your ever-present optimism. Take care and be well. X

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  21. Hey there Rob!

    I know, this a very serious thing we're all going through right now. And not just here, but all over the world. I do believe we need to keep ourselves updated and practice health precautions, no doubt. However, watching the news all day only feeds into the panic and fear. For me, I have to keep a certain distance from the sensationalism and ground myself to stay positive and moving forward. I'm trying to see the lessons here, and finding the bright spots.

    Keep the faith, buddy. Remember...we will survive!

    Thanks so much for stopping by. Have a faaaaaaaaabulous weekend! And give my love to my favorite city in the whole wide world. And if anyone can rise above all this...it's NEW YORK!!!!!

    X

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  22. Hellooooooooooooo there Elaine!

    Happy to hear you and you hubby had a laugh. I was hoping that video clip would had some humor at this time.

    "I don't buy into the drama and am not freaking out about all this. My husband on the other hand is very nervous and freaking out. We balance each other very well LOL! "

    It's so ironic you said that because I know of another couple who are the same. She's dealing with this very well, but her husband is freaking out.

    I've been watching old episodes of "Golden Girls" and "Designing Women" and have the time of my life. I forgot how freaking HILARIOUS those shows were.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Have a super weekend!

    X

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  23. Hey there Lisa!

    Yes, don't you love how the media is magnifying all the panic and fear? I watched a news clip this morning in which the news station was promoting a special they're broadcasting this evening that looked as though it was a trailer for horror movie. It was sooooooooooooo over the top and dramatic. It looked like sneak-peek of "Silence of the Lambs."

    "Families will actually get to know each other better. Innovation will rise. Heck, many will learn how to cook at home! :-)"

    Exactly! And that's what I've been seeing so much of lately. People reconnecting. And it's so heart-warming.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a faaaaaaaaabulous weekend!

    X to you and your family!

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  24. I am SO glad you shared your perspective on the current events. Like you, I’ve been noticing those small but powerful gestures and it gives me hope that I thought was long gone in this city life and current times. Thank you for making me laugh and spreading your light!!
    Kelly

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  25. Hellooooooooo Kelly!

    Sorry about the delay posting your comment, but I have this blog set up so that I have to approved all first time users to make sure it's not spam. In the future if you should ever leave a comment, it will be immediately posted.

    "Like you, I’ve been noticing those small but powerful gestures and it gives me hope that I thought was long gone in this city life and current times."

    Yes, I know you do. And I was so happy that we were able to spend the day earlier this week, sharing our thoughts and insights. You and I both have the same perspective on all this.

    Thanks SO MUCH for stopping by and sharing a comment. Also, thank you for being such a FABULOUS friend!

    ((((((((((((((((( YOU ))))))))))))))))))

    X

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  26. Ron, I can't thank you enough for sharing your perspective about this pandemic. I agree with you 100%, the media is not helping the fear. If anything, they're adding to it. My girlfriend and I are lucky that we can work from home and we're so grateful for that. Like you, we don't watch the news all day because besides the drama, it starts to make you numb.

    Your video, ROCKS! We watched to several times and laughed our asses off!

    Thank you for being you, dude!

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  27. Hiya Matt!

    Happy to hear that you and your girlfriend are able to work at home, that's AWESOME! I know that's a big concern right now for many people not working, due to many business being closed.

    "Like you, we don't watch the news all day because besides the drama, it starts to make you numb."

    Yes, you are absolutely right, after a while is does make numb to what's actually happening. It's like sensory overload.

    Thank you, glad you enjoyed the video. Aren't I crazy?

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Stay positive!

    X

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  28. Ron, leave it to you to keep us feeling positive during such a challenging time. I'm seeing what's happening to New York and it's heartbreaking because that's my native state. Florida is not nearly as impacted, but that could change overnight. I feel so grateful for all the medical workers who are putting themselves at risk everyday. Bless them!

    I remember watching your hysterical video years ago, but it was such a delight to see it again. Thank you SO MUCH for your humor and positivity.

    Stay well and happy, Ron! xo

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  29. Hola Denise!

    OMG, I know....right now New York is feeling it the most severe. I have a friend who lives in Brooklyn who was luckily on vacation in Texas visiting her family when everything started to explode in NY. She decided not to return to NY until they can get a level on the severity. She wants so bad to return to NY, but feels that she is much safer where she is.

    YES! I applaud and cheer all the medical workers for their courage to keep working. And also the all the workers in grocery stores, so that we can continue to purchase food.

    Glad you enjoyed the video again! And I'm happy that it made you laugh.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, girl. Have a great rest of your week and stay well!

    X

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  30. Ron, forgot to mention in my first comment that I LOVE the picture of you sitting in that huge chair! Where did you take that?

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  31. Thanks! I took that photo YEARS ago while down in a section of Philly known as Old City. That chair was sitting in front of a furniture store. I felt like Lily Tomlin in the movie, "The Incredible Shrinking Woman!"

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