We live in a challenging time. We live in a difficult time.

Both statements can be defended well. Both are about now.

Yet they are two different statements with a different approach to the times in which we live. The first calls for action. The second makes us feel that we are having a hard time. This is understandable, because we feel a lack of contact with dear family and friends. There seems to be no end to the confinement in our house, our room.

There is more. How can we control ourselves and how do we avoid the anger of others around us? This requires a lot from us. How do we avoid being paralyzed and depressed?

There is no simple answer. But a way out is possible. This goes step by step.

It starts with looking yourself straight in the eye and daring to see how things are going with yourself from the awareness that you cannot run away from yourself. This is not easy, because sometimes you realize the dark sides of yourself that you want to hide.

Sometimes you feel paralyzed by what's happening to you and you don't know what to do.

This is where the challenge begins. It may be wise to put yourself on hold, because you cannot solve all problems on your own, no matter how much you want to. You acknowledge reality, which does not mean that you resign yourself to it. That way you can relax yourself. This rest can make it possible for you to do something else for a while, step outside yourself and show an eye for what is happening around you.

You may see anything that you can do something with and that proves to be meaningful to you. Or you go listen to music, in which you can sink in for a while. That way you can relax. Something is not necessary.

This rest gives you the opportunity to make contact with someone with whom you usually feel comfortable. Just make contact without expecting anything.

If you can make the other person feel that you are listening, you make it possible to talk about something that is good for both of you without coming up with something difficult.

Direct human contact is important to both and can provide relief.

Have faith that this is possible and meaningful.

Activating yourself sets you in motion and you will feel better about yourself. And you are doing the other a favor. You experience that your existence is worth living.

This is how it always goes: you experience that your life is good through contact and connection with other people around you. It is not a matter of thinking. That exhausts you and gives you negative rather than positive feelings.

By accepting that you cannot control your life the way you want, you can see what your options are. In this way you can learn to give direction to your life.

With peace in your soul you radiate peace.