Sometimes it’s hard to smile. Sometimes it’s hard to push on, to power through, to grin and bear it. In these times we’re finding ourselves at a bit of a loss, without the comforts and confidants we rely on. We tell ourselves to toughen up, without acknowledging the spiritual and mental cost of pretending to be alright.

Kengo Nagaoka and I put this song together as a source of comfort, as a moment of truth, but also as a reckoning that the waves of this year are sometimes hard to ride.

After deciding this was the song we wanted to offer, we realized that the original version didn’t express the acceptance, growth, and healing that should come in hard moments. So we wrote a new verse. Does it resonate with you?

You are not alone. There are resources you can reach out to, people who want to support you, and lots and lots of love in the world.

CRISIS CARE LINES

If you are depressed, going through a hard time, need to talk or are thinking of suicide, talk to someone! Call a family or friend, or call a crisis care line. There are people on the line to listen and support you through whatever difficult times you are facing.

STATE HOTLINE: Alaska’s Careline 24/7: 1-877-266-4357

MORE CARE-LINE RESOURCES:https://www.ayanatherapy.com/resources

LGBTQ CARE LINES/SERVICES: https://ostem.org/page/crisis-hotlines

ANCHORAGE: South Central Counseling Center

24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (907) 563-3200

Virtual BiPOC Meditation Collective <https://www.bipocmeditationcollective.com/>: https://www.bipocmeditationcollective.com/

An engaged meditation community for Black, Indigenous and People of Color

“We currently gather at least twice a month: Online / Zoom – Every 2nd & 4th Wednesday see of the month from 7 – 8:30pm (Mountain Time)”

Special HUGE thanks to Jeff Chen for the beautiful camera and editing work, and to Joel Schnaper and Eiden Pospisil for letting us use their studio space.