Nearly halfway through the year, 2020 has been labeled as “the year that woke us up” by many across social and news media outlets. Progress, or being “woke,” does not come without change, a lot of work and self-reflection; I believe it is safe to say the latter produces some of the most uncomfortable but crucial aspects of the process.

Self-care during times like these is critical. This comes in many forms; for some, it might be reading a chapter of their favorite book every day, a five-minute dance party or refraining from social media for 24 hours, while others opt for an earlier bedtime, daily walks or conversations with friends and family. No matter what you choose to do, take care of yourself mentally and emotionally just as much as you do physically. Author Alexandra Elle said, “Self-care as community care is a radical act of bravery and love as I can’t be anything to anyone if I am nothing to myself.” This has been stuck in my head for weeks!

In an attempt to practice what I preach and escape the grief, heaviness and overwhelming reality that surrounds us, I ventured to Core Creek Park for some much-needed time in the sun this past weekend and took my family with me. We shared laughs, great barbecued food and, most importantly, deep appreciation for the current moment we were experiencing.

Keeping in mind we’re still in the midst of a global pandemic, we took the necessary precautions, packed up the car with some BBQ essentials and headed out, set to make the best of the day. Luckily, Core Creek Park has many picnic tables, so we were able to find a spot that allowed us to practice social distancing. It was definitely interesting to see how different certain interactions are now.

The joy and laughter continued the next day over a delicious homemade brunch and more time in the sun. If you ask me if it felt normal, my answer would be no, nothing feels normal right now, but it sure felt great to spend time with family and take our minds off things for a day or two.

How have you found joy this week?

— Yasser Ogando, production & advertising coordinator