Last week I was sitting on my sun porch.

A blue jay was stuck in the corner, flapping his wings like crazy. He seemed frightened with no where to go.

At first I wanted to reSolutions come when we scue him. The yogi in me sat back, took a breath and relaxed.

“People are acting like this bird is a result of covid-19.” I thought.

I wondered “Does the bird know freedom is on the other side of the screen and the door is open? He can only get out if he slows down.”

New York Gov. Cuomo has people on “pause.” Maybe he is afraid to do shelter in place for fear of what’s happening in Michigan. Citizens protest feeling trapped.

I was living in NY state during 9/11. That seems like child’s play in some ways compared to covid-19.

We can’t control the universe or what some people do or think. We can live differently. Every negative has positives.

Here’s how to find them for yourself.

• Slow down. Breathe deeply in and out through your nose. Your mouth has to be closed to do this right.

• Be curious. Albert Einstein once said, “I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” Be like Albert Einstein.

• Ask yourself these questions. Do it out loud. Don’t answer too quickly.

“How can I feel safe and happy during social distancing?”

“What would quiet my mind knowing my daily routine has changed?”

“How can I create an opportunity out of where I am now?”

If the blue jay could ask himself a question, would it have been, “Will I get out of this corner if I do something different?”

Do your best to let worry go.

Focus on something joyful.

Don’t take on more than you can manage. Solutions come when we give ourselves space, time and peace of mind.

Have a unique concern? Email me at maryjobriggsaustin@gmail.com