Remember You are a Resilient Warrior

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Written by: Kathy Fitisone, ASADSV Asst Office Mgr

In the Online Oxford Dictionary resilience is defined as “the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties”.  It is also further defined as “the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape”.  While both definitions are similar in meaning they differ on the timeframe of an expected outcome.  The first definition denotes a sense of immediacy.  While this is great for those who are capable of such a feat, for many of us dealing with myriad of issues attributed to the pandemic, this “quick recovery” is not forthcoming any time soon.

For many of us recovery is a slow, agonizing process.  As cliché as it sounds, at many times it seems to be pushing us along the road of “two steps forward, one step back” with stops, falls, and U-turns along the way.  It’s as if the process requires normalcy – a set, standard, and straight path, because that is what we were used to – but is not easily attainable.  However, if the pandemic has taught us anything, it should be that there is no one definition or standard of normal.  If you feel you are in this group, please know that you are not alone.    
There is no set timeline for you to “spring back into shape”.  What’s more important is that you are aware of the ability to do so.  Being aware and being able means knowing your support systems, knowing your limits, knowing your purpose.  It means setting those goals and dreaming those dreams.  It means celebrating the little victories, and acknowledging the setbacks.  It means it’s ok not to be ok. 
If you are on the path to recovery, no matter how long it has taken you or how far you still feel you have to go, you are doing a great job.  Given everything you have been through, you are a resilient warrior and we are proud of you.