Respite Reflections’ purpose is to help people push the “pause” button in their transition work — to take a break from the thinking, researching, networking and preparing for interviews. Taking a moment to center yourself, ponder a positive thought, and focus on a broader perspective is invaluable during a time of transition.
“Each of us makes their own weather,
and determines the color of the skies,
in the emotional universe which each inhabits.”
– Fulton J. Sheen
The weather in Milwaukee in January 2014 was beyond cold – it was frigid and it perpetuated itself into several unbelievable days of nearly instantaneous frost biting frigidity. Sometimes, due to circumstances encountered, we allow ourselves to turn cold, with our hearts freezing up in resentment and regret.
We want to make sure that when it gets cold outside – whether from falling temperatures or failed expectations – we remember to stay warm inside. Each of us has the power to thaw frozen attitudes and melt hardened hearts, making life warmer and more uplifting for all we encounter – even ourselves. Everyone feels a thaw taking place when empathy and compassion are encountered and expressed. Help defrost that which is frozen – smile often!
– Connie Popp
Dr. Connie Popp is a board member for The Center for Life Transitions as well as an active facilitator for the Center’s Life-SHIFT and Job Search Courage programs. She is also the Director of Campus Ministry at Alverno College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Read more.