Mother Nature and Earth Day

When Earth Day was first instituted 40 years ago as a means of teaching about and appreciating the Earth's environment, few people had heard of the Eyjafjallajokull glacier in Iceland - and even fewer of the volcano beneath it which has been erupting this month. But all of Europe has certainly become aware of it now.

In the wake of these volcanic eruptions, seismic activities and dramatic weather this spring, we all are struck by the realization that changes in the Earth can come in many ways. They can be gradual or sudden and violent. They can come from the forces of nature or from the actions of human beings. They can be unexpected and out of our control or planned and anticipated. In either case, the havoc they reap can affect millions. The ash darkening the skies over northern Europe has impacted the economy and may continue to do so for weeks to come.

So how then do we come to terms with the tremendous power of Mother Nature? Given the current discussions about whether or not the globe is actually warming - and, if so, whether it's due to man or the earth itself - you may be left feeling confused and overwhelmed. You can take a lead from the Serenity Prayer used in most 12 step programs: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. On Earth Day, you can acknowledge the power of nature and still recognize your role in the process.

And in your personal life, you can use these same techniques. Focus on what you can control in your life and what you can accomplish, not what you can't. While you often can't influence circumstances, you can control how you handle them. Clearly define your goals or aspirations and keep focused on them. Letting go of negative thoughts and unrealistic expectations can free you up to make something positive come out of a negative situation.

For some help in moving toward positive solutions, you and other Sandwiched Boomers can draw on the tips in our Her Mentor Center ebook, Courage and Lessons Learned. When you sign up for our free newsletter, Stepping Stones, you'll receive a complimentary copy of our ebook. Look to the left of this post to subscribe - and you're on your way!

Miranda, a Sandwiched Boomer, feels physically and emotionally exhausted and vows to make some changes in the New Year. "I love my parents dearly and want to help them out as much as I can but I need to be there for my kids too. Impossible as it may sound, the only way to do both is to set aside some time for me too. I know that I'm absolutely no good to anyone if I don't take care of myself."

Like Miranda, you can address your particular concerns and set some goals for yourself. Elizabeth wrote in that she's not making resolutions, just keeping track of some things. She touches on a good point. It's important to make changes in the way that is best for you.

We'll be covering a couple of tips a day that will help you deal with the pressures of the Sandwiched years. Discuss them with others or work with them yourself - and let us know how you're doing.

1. Recognize that you don't have to do it all alone. Decide to get help when you need it from other family members. Be firm about asking your siblings to lend a hand with your parents; clarify your partner's responsibilities in caring for the children. The Internet can be useful in identifying local community resources that are available to you.

2. Use part of the Serenity Prayer as your new mantra. Make an effort to “have the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.” To remember the phrase, write it down and leave it where you can see it – on your night table, the refrigerator, the front seat in your car, your desk at work.