Summer 2026
Summertime Sun
Here in Germany, to say the people are excited about summer, is a gross understatement. And I couldn’t feel further from this sentiment. I am a hot, post-menopausal (thank goodness for hormones!), person, and I sweat as soon as it turns 70F/21C. I’ve been carrying around my fan and hat since May. So, yea, I am not totally thrilled about the heat. And with the recent heatwaves here, it’s been an especially tough time for people, animals and all living things.
You know what’s not totally popular in Germany? Central air conditioning. And when there is air conditioning, it’s very light. I know I have been spoiled by having AC blasting on me as soon as I walk into a store in the US, so I am just adjusting.
But adjusting, changing and topics in that genre are always a little tough on us. Ugh. Can you think of a time where you had or currently have a hard time adjusting? Can you think of what you did/are doing to procrastinate dealing with the change? Just think about it, try (emphasis on *try*), and notice where you feel the resistance in your body and/or mind.
You know why this resistance is okay? It means your body is doing what it’s programmed to do. The body, just like with death, doesn’t feel thrilled about change. Rather, it seeks comfort especially in the known. Even when it’s not the healthiest for us, the body likes to be ‘in the know’ and it’s comforted in this state.
Whether the ‘know’ is healthy or not, our biology is a big fan of it (amongst other things which I won’t get into here). So, adjusting and changing just don’t really do it for us. Now, there are cases where it may benefit us to go beyond this comfort zone to enrich our lives (like working on your emotional healing, moving your body in a challenging etc.). Going beyond the comfort zone has changed lives for many and can do the same for you. I am addressing this in a very simple way; however, this would not apply to doing things that threaten your safety particularly with your physical and mental health.
But sometimes we are just in a position where change is inevitable, and we must deal with it somehow. Maybe you can handle the change like a pro or even semi-pro and that’s amazing!
Sometimes though, we may just need to move through time, especially when we are challenged with the extra stress and demands of life. I think most people assume that when I talk about death I’m going to default to ‘make the most of every moment!’ theme. While death is very sobering and will usually drive us to reflect about how we spend our time, the pressure to make the most of every moment, especially while you’re struggling, can be a big mouthful to manage.
This is why I think it’s okay to take the pressure off a bit and try to bring meaning into your moments when you think of it and are capable. Because when we are trying to carry ourselves through a challenging situation, big or small, we may not have much reserve left for anything else
Everybody, of course, is different but take this into consideration especially if you’re judging yourself for something. I am thinking of you and hoping you can experience something good this season.
In Case You Need Some Reading Material While You Are Baking in the Sun
Everybody’s Doing It, So Let’s Die Better - my new(ish) book, is a 31-day companion for caregivers facing the final chapter with their loved one, is out.
You can find it at diebetterbook.com.
It has received wonderful reviews and feedback - and if you gave it a read and have a minute, I (and Auntie D too) would be really appreciative if you left an Amazon review.
Dead Famous “I do not fear death. I had been dead for billions and billions of years before I was born and had not suffered the slightest inconvenience from it.”
Mark Twain
Dying to Meet You
Like I always mention in my newsletters, while I am alive on this planet, one of my favorite things to do is meet you all. If you ever want to connect, write/DM to talk about your questions, hobbies, hopes, etc. I would love to connect with you! Loads of love,
Abigail