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group of young friends enjoying picnic time drink and food in beautiful nature on the river bank top view

<h3 data-pm-slice="1 3 []" data-en-clipboard="true"><strong>Connecting with Others During Crises</strong><br></h3><div data-pm-slice="1 3 []" data-en-clipboard="true"><figure id="figure-5ul4i6e02glmlgfcan"><img id="5ul4i6e02glmlgfcan" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1556484687-30636164638b?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNHx8Y29tbXVuaXR5fGVufDB8fHx8MTY5NDgzNDA1MXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1556484687-30636164638b?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNHx8Y29tbXVuaXR5fGVufDB8fHx8MTY5NDgzNDA1MXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p></div><div data-pm-slice="1 3 []" data-en-clipboard="true"><br>Even the most prepared individuals cannot weather major crises alone forever. Building relationships and communication channels in advance is key to pooling resources, ensuring safety, and accessing information.</div><div data-pm-slice="1 3 []" data-en-clipboard="true"><br></div><h3>Help Neighbors</h3><div><strong>Build Relationships in Advance</strong></div><div>Get to know those who live nearby, help when you can, and communicate about preparedness. Have mutual aid plans.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Plan and Respond Collectively</strong></div><div>Band together for security patrols, shared equipment/supplies, and division of labor. Combine skills and resources.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Find Safety in Numbers</strong></div><div>A unified community is far less vulnerable than isolated individuals during unrest or lawlessness.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><h3>Communications</h3><div><strong>Have Non-Digital Alternatives</strong></div><div>AM/FM radios, walkie-talkies, HAM radios, and CB radios continue working when cell towers are down.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Consider HAM Radio Licensure</strong></div><div>Study for and pass the HAM radio exam to gain access to extended communications networks.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Monitor Scanners for Info</strong></div><div>Programmable scanners can monitor critical frequencies of emergency services, utility crews, etc.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><h3>Taking Incremental Steps</h3><div><strong>Prioritize Based on Likelihood/Impact</strong></div><div>Tackle low probability but high impact risks after covering more likely issues. Avoid analysis paralysis.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Commit to a Slow and Steady Journey</strong></div><div>Make steady progress over time vs. burning out on rapid Unsustainable efforts. Build long-term habits.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Learn and Improve Skills Together</strong></div><div>Combine knowledge and train together to raise community preparedness levels over time.</div><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><div>A resilient community is stronger than the sum of its parts. </div><div><br data-mce-bogus="1"></div><div>Nurture critical relationships with those around you for mutual support.</div><div><br data-mce-bogus="1"></div><ul><li><div>Reach out to nearby neighbors to start a preparedness group</div></li><li><div>Organize a meeting to discuss priorities, resources, and plans</div></li><li><div>Arrange emergency communications tests</div></li><li><div>Share skills and knowledge widely</div></li></ul>

Community and Communications

<p>Making choices based on our principles can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. In the midst of a pandemic and vaccine mandates, I found myself at odds with a fitness center that I had once frequented for its high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts. Fueled by a strong belief in the importance of supporting businesses aligned with my values, I boycotted the gym, compromising my physical fitness in the process. However, a recent self-reflection prompted me to reassess my priorities and the impact of my steadfast stance. In this blog post, we delve into the concepts of forgiveness, flexibility, and pursuing personal goals amidst societal challenges.</p><h3>Holding a Grudge Takes Its Toll</h3><p>A year and a half had passed since I last set foot in my favorite HIIT fitness center. I harbored resentment towards the establishment of its vaccine mandates, considering them an infringement on personal choice and an imposition of experimental drugs. I staunchly held onto my principles, neglecting my body's need for regular exercise and the remarkable benefits the HIIT program offered. It was time to confront the consequences of my grudge.</p><h3>The Inner Battle and Self-Reflection</h3><p>Before deciding to return, I questioned the true impact of my boycott. Was I inflicting any lasting damage upon the fitness center? The answer, upon reflection, was a resounding "no." However, I couldn't ignore the consequences I was personally experiencing. My physical fitness had suffered, and alternative gym options were limited in my small town. Realizing this, I overcame my grievances and recommitted to my well-being.</p><h3>Embracing Forgiveness and Flexibility</h3><p>Stepping into the gym again, I carried the weight of my unforgiving energy pattern. Yet, as the workout progressed, it dawned on me that forgiveness held the key to personal growth. The decision-makers at the fitness center were, in essence, victims of a larger agenda, susceptible to societal pressures and the fear surrounding the pandemic. Understanding this perspective helped me empathize with their choices.</p><h3>The Power of Priorities</h3><p>Ultimately, I came to a pivotal realization during my journey back to the gym. Who was genuinely suffering from my principled stand? Was it the fitness center or me? The answer became clear: I was the one experiencing the consequences of my rigid stance. I recognized the importance of assessing priorities and understanding when to adapt to achieve my goals.</p><h3>Lessons Learned and Moving Forward</h3><p>In a world influenced by external factors and often questionable decisions, it is essential to maintain a balance between personal values and individual aspirations. Forgiveness does not imply endorsement of past actions but serves as a stepping stone towards personal growth. By letting go of grudges and embracing flexibility, we empower ourselves to navigate through challenging circumstances without sacrificing our own progress.</p><p>Returning to the gym taught me the importance of forgiveness and assessing priorities. Holding onto a grudge against the fitness center only hindered my well-being and goals. By recognizing the larger forces at play and focusing on what mattered to me, I reclaimed control over my physical fitness. Let this serve as a reminder that in a world full of complexities, forgiveness and a clear assessment of our priorities can lead us to a more fulfilling and empowered life.</p>

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Community and Communications

Forgiveness and Assessing Priorities: Finding Balance in ...