Pilgrims! Ok, maybe you have to read it again but that silly line always gave me a chuckle. However, I don’t feel much like laughing this month. I have an older friend in hospice, my face has been horribly burned by blue-light for pre-cancer spots, and our nation’s democracy teeters on life support.

When faced with situations like this, I think reframing and action are called for. Reframing is to ask myself what are other ways I can look at a situation. For my friend on hospice, reframing acknowledges that hospice is about comfort care. For action: because I believe no one should die alone (except if that’s their wish), I want to make sure I am available to come when needed.

As for my face, it looks horrid, hurts like #$%^T&. Reframing: I know that barring unforseen circumstances, my skin will recover and the pre-cancer spots should be gone. For action: I will do what is called for: apply vinegar and water compresses to my face. Apply tons of Vaseline, stay out of the sun, and wear heavy sunscreen.

When it comes to democracy, the reframing is to first celebrate that we can vote and hold an election—hopefully without violence. My action is to vote, to write postcards to voters to remind them of this precious honor, and to stay away from media that is inflammatory, negative, and demeaning to people of all races and gender persuasions.

I highly recommend the works of award-winning history professor from Boston College, Heather Cox Richardson. You’ll see her newest book referenced below.

I know, it’s a serious topic. But resilence requires an honest look at how we got here so we can grow in directions we want. Who better to teach us than an amazing history professor?