The words scrawled on the sidewalk glared back at me as I took my brisk walk along the Santa Barbara beach path.  Who could be feeling so alone, so fed up and hurt that they’d take the time to write the words, “You Might As Well Just Give Up,” in huge letters on the sidewalk in a black marking pen?

What struck me was the concurrence of gorgeous clear water under a bright blue sky and the sweet smell of Spring all around me, with these sad words of disillusionment.  Were they written by a person who not only couldn’t feel their beauty, but let this outside beauty seep in?

I’m not even feeling down, and yet getting away for a few days and working in this hotel room with a view of the ocean, has given me a sense of renewal.  While my husband is in a conference, I’m balancing work and taking time off for fun.

From time to time, we’ve all felt disappointed, rejected or just confused.  Find ways to renew yourself.  Take a drive, a walk, go somewhere that might give you too a fresh perspective – and be open to it.  Don’t let yourself get bogged down in negative or “no way out” thinking.  If quiet reflection works, do that.  But know too there is always someone you can talk with who’ll listen and support you. 

If you don’t have caring friends, create them in your life.  If you don’t have someone in your work industry to go over problems with, attend a network meeting and find a few reliable and confidential individuals.  The best time to gather these human resources are when things are going right. 

Just keep in mind, that there is always a solution and a way to be with what’s occurring and don’t give up.