swing
1
a: to cause to move vigorously through a wide arc or circle swing an ax
b: to cause to sway to and fro
c(1): to cause to turn on an axis
(2): to cause to face or move in another direction swing the car into a side road
2
: to suspend so as to permit swaying or turning
3
: to convey by suspension cranes swinging cargo into the ship's hold
1
: an act or instance of swinging : swinging movement: such as
a(1): a stroke or blow delivered with a sweeping arm movement
a batter with a powerful swing
(2): a sweeping or rhythmic movement of the body or a bodily part
(3): a dance figure in which two dancers revolve with joined arms or hands
(4): jazz dancing in moderate tempo with a lilting syncopation
b(1): the regular movement of a freely suspended object (such as a pendulum) along an arc and back
(2): back and forth sweep the swing of the tides
c(1): steady pulsing rhythm (as in poetry or music)
(2): a steady vigorous movement characterizing an activity or creative work
d(1): a trend toward a high or low point in a fluctuating cycle (as of business activity)
(2): an often periodic shift from one condition, form, position, or object of attention or favor to another
Dear Friend,
I’m not quite sure what to write about this month. I’ve picked topics, written pages, and discarded them again and again. I guess it’s hard to get back into a routine after being in a different world for a little while.
Though camp has been over for almost a month now, it still feels strange to get back into the regular swing of things. I’m sure you can relate, seeing as the school year has just started.
The transition between the freedom and spontaneity of summer and the rigidity and conformity of school starting is never an easy one. Though it’s been a while since I’ve been there, I still remember the difficulty of this time very clearly.
Have you ever been on a swing? You’re in perfect balance, like a pendulum swinging back and forth. When suddenly… Someone tries to push you when you should be pulled, going against the natural momentum. The swing jerks, and from one moment to the next, the balance is lost.
That’s how I’ve been feeling lately.
It can feel like there are so many external forces dictating our lives. Forces that pull our swing in whatever direction they please without regard to our feelings about it. There’s no denying, life has its ups and downs, and we certainly don’t have control over them.
It can often feel like you are being yanked back into a reality that you don’t want to participate in. However, giving yourself the grace and understanding of how difficult these changes really are makes them easier to deal with.
The metaphor of the swing is similar to those akin to a wave. When the waves are big, they oftentimes take you under, but a few seconds later, you emerge victorious. Maybe you swallowed some water, or maybe you closed your eyes and went with it. Either way, you survive the changes, however unpleasant.
There’s something to be said about that. About the fact that you’ve made it this far. You’ve survived 100% of your life, though it has not always been easy, especially in times of great transition!
I’m here to let you know it’s okay. It’s okay if it’s been difficult for you. It’s okay if you can’t quite get back into the rhythm. It’s okay if it’s taking some time for you to adjust. It’s a completely normal reaction. Giving yourself compassion when these situations arise and challenge us is one of the most important lessons we can learn in life.
There will be difficulty. There will be pain. There will be situations that we don’t feel we are ready for or capable of surviving. Most likely, we will survive them anyway. The key to being able to function in the aftermath is turning to ourselves with understanding and love.
It’s okay that it hasn’t been easy. It would be hard for anyone in this situation. Quoting my camp cuties, quoting memes on this one: “You’re doing amazing, sweetie!” I’ve got your back! You’ve made it this far, and I’m proud of you! And hey, since I’m in the same boat, I’m proud of myself too.
If you ever need a reminder in difficult times of transition, revisit this blog and remind yourself. “It hasn’t been an easy time. I have struggled quite a bit, but I’ve made it through and will continue to do so!”
No matter what, I believe in you. And though I do hope it gets easier, I know you can do it even if it doesn’t.
The swing ride will smooth out eventually, until then, try to enjoy it, and remember: I love you.
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