If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that change is truly the only constant, and that being willing to adapt to each new thing that arises in each new moment is the only way to keep moving forward. 

If I’m being totally honest, this year has been really TOUGH as a small business owner. I feel constantly pushed and pulled in opposite directions, caught in between the desire to go BIG during our busy season, and to stay small, very, very small, for the sake of wanting to protect our community. I’ve had to let go of a lot of plans (actually, ALL of them) and ideas and expectations and have been practicing the art of going with the flow — rolling with the punches, if you will. Every week has presented a new twist, and with every new piece of information, a new challenge.

As business owners in a small community during a pandemic, to say we carry a lot of responsibility would be an understatement. Things are quite heavy sometimes. The pressure to do the ‘right’ thing while keeping members and clients happy, but also SAFE and healthy while ALSO trying to make money so that we can stay in business is, to put it lightly, not easy.

Though, despite the canceled plans, workshops, retreats, events… despite the enormous weight on my shoulders and the constant questioning and worry of whether I’m doing what’s best for not only our community, but for my and my family as well… a lot of good has come out of this difficult time. Doors have opened that wouldn’t have otherwise. My husband, Josh, returned home from Afganistan a month early to us. We’ve all been reminded of just how fragile this life is. We’ve learned that none of us are indestructible. And that if we don’t have our health, despite how abundant our lives are otherwise, we really don’t have much…

Hopefully, we’ve all gotten a little more humble, patient, conscious, kind, resilient, and adaptable.

Hopefully we’ve learned to listen. Hopefully we’ve found creative ways to stay connected with loved ones in safe ways. Hopefully we’ve become more grateful, and aware of the simple fact that has always been true; that all we really have is this moment.

Times are hard. For everyone. But we need community more than ever so let’s all try and be a little bit gentler with each other and with ourselves. After all, as one of our members (and neighbors!) has written on a sign in front of her house; 

“Different boats. Same storm.”

May you and your loved ones be safe.

May you and your loved ones be healthy.

May you and your loved ones be happy.

May you and your loved ones be well.

Namaste,

Coty