Growing up gay in America, I became a master at compartmentalization.  I could be one person with my family, another with my friends, another at Church, and my deepest feelings and darkest secrets I hid in boxes that no one, not even me, could access.

Then, I fell in love with my partner (now wife!) of 44 years, and hidden boxes began to open until I could be the same person at home, at work, with my family and at Church (a different one of course).  

I strive to live an integrated life, but lately I find myself scrambling to re-compartmentalize when I become overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, anger and, at times, despair, I feel over the state of of our country and the world.  

It seems our collective values crumble more each day.  Corruption and cruelty have overtaken our government.  Conflicts and calamities are on the rise.  Too many days it is just too much.

So, I am reaching back to my well-honed compartmentalization skills.  This time, though, instead of chopping myself into pieces, I choose to compartmentalize my time and my attention.

I am striving to limit my focus on news, skimming the surface to comprehend the big picture without becoming buried under the avalanche.

I am trying to expand my community compartment, being with people having ordinary conversations about life’s challenges.  

I seek more time spent with friends laughing, sharing, giving and providing support.  

I have become more focused on what I can do to push us toward kinder, more inclusive and loving future, becoming more involved in protests, and intentional giving and spending.

I cherish each day my compartment of family, relishing in the the time spent on the patio having coffee, sharing thoughts, feelings, recalling memories and making plans for the future.  

I spend more time watching kids play, going for walks and engaging with our cats—giving them belly rubs whenever they ask, even if it takes me longer to get the chores done.

I find myself more in prayer for those who are suffering, for guidance and hope, and to express my gratitude for all the wonders of the world around me.

Take care of yourselves, my friends.  Don’t let what is happening rob you of joy or your love of life.  For me, this includes re-compartmentalization, but a better version of it.