Take a deep breath. Go ahead, do it as you read this. Over the past few weeks I’ve had to continually remind myself to just take a deep a breath. Like for many of you, at times everything feels overwhelming, and at other times the slower pace and time at home with family is warmly welcomed.
I do not have all the answers for what comes next - or how - but I can tell you that, despite being physically separated, the conservation community is still a community. We are still connected, we are still working and we are still focused on the future. As daunting as it may seem, focusing on our collective work has been a respite of its own for me. How lucky are we to be doing work we love, in places that move us and with people who share our passion? Let us turn this good fortune into even better work.
Conservation will continue to be critical to Colorado. We shouldn’t wait to share that message and to demonstrate how positively conservation impacts our economy, how it leads to healthy communities and how vital it is for our future. We are working now to craft these messages, prepare case statements and plan for more collaborative conservation in the coming months.
We are also working on new and different ways to serve our coalition members and the broader Colorado conservation community. And we're deliberate about staying connected with funders and partners, legislators and agencies, and industry professionals. Eventually, we will turn a corner and the time will be right to spring into action and we will be ready. Yes, the outdoors will be there waiting for us. Let’s be sure we’re ready to continue protecting it.
Here are a few things I’ve been doing to stay calm and focused:
Soaking up the sun: Whether through a window in my house, in my yard or on a walk, I try to get some sun every day. If you go out, stay local and stay safe!
Legos and kinetic sand: Seriously, play time does wonders for stress levels. If you don’t have kids and toys, there is no shame in an online order of something fun. Plus, it can keep your hands busy while your mind is focused on endless Zoom meetings!
Scheduled time for the news: I no longer let myself take in every news update every minute of the day. Instead, I pick a time (or times) and tune in. If you’re just not feeling you need a news update one day, take a break. You can always catch up tomorrow, and don’t worry, we’ll all still be at home, at least for a few more weeks.
I sincerely hope you and your families are healthy and safe. If there is anything we can do for you, don’t hesitate to reach out.
- Melissa Daruna, executive director
