We are reminded of when Mr. Fred Rogers shared, "When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother's words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers - so many caring people in the world." 

 

This is a really comforting thought. A lot of us are wondering, waiting and hoping that life will go back to “normal” soon, but honestly, well, we don’t really know when or if that will happen. There are just to many unknowns.

 

That's why it's important to give ourselves grace during this unusual time in our lives and remember that we are human. Events like this one can be scary and stressful. We may experience sadness, frustration or perhaps even hopelessness. And that's okay. After all, we are human.  During this difficult time, please access and share these resources with others when needed (all are resources are free and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week):

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Crisis workers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  You may reach them by calling (217) 362-6262 (dial 1 for a crisis worker).

 

Suicide Prevention Line: 1-800-273-8255

Text an anonymous crisis counselor: 741741

Trevor Project Hotline (LGBTQ+): 1-866-488-7386

Trevor Project Text Line: 678678