Sanity Check, Please

Broadcasting from Tigard, Oregon, Mike describes his recent transition from a difficult weekend into a Tuesday work-from-home routine, while also enduring mental health struggles, technical frustrations with his work computer, and his ongoing effort to build a creative nonprofit collective.

Good morning, this is Mike George, and it is about 8:30 on Tuesday, 11 August 2020. I’m coming to you from Tigard, a cute little suburb just southwest of Portland, Oregon. I’m starting my day with a bit of a 'roundabout' search—looking for my soul, looking for my lost pets, and honestly, just looking for some stability.

I just had a quick chat with a neighbor walking his dog, Fox. It’s a strange morning, isn't it? I don’t know what 'normal' even means in the news anymore, so I’m just trying to stay in my own lane. I’ve got to write an email to my boss and get my work day started—even if my brand-new computer is being stubborn and refusing to turn on. I’m having a bit of a sanity check here: the light is on, the keyboard is lit, but the screen is blank. If anyone out there has an 'IT imagination,' I could really use the help.

I’m also reminding myself to take my meds — always a priority before work, especially after the rough weekend I've had. It’s an interactive morning, too! I’m inviting you all to join the conversation, maybe even jump on camera with me if Facebook Live actually lets the 'Invite' button work for once.

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about who I am, who I tell myself I am, and who I want to be. 2020 has been a long road, and we’ve still got a ways to go. I had a bit of a panic attack earlier, but I’m breathing through it. I’m moving forward with the 'Collective' project—we’ve got three slots filled and four to go. Check it out if you’re looking for a new direction. For now, I’m going to finish my morning routine, grab some coffee, and try to make sense of this Tuesday. Take care of each other. Peace!