By Anne Peters, LMFT

It’s the start of a new school year! This year has looked pretty different than any other year, hasn’t it? You haven’t been to school since March, you and your family have been social distancing from others, you’ve been wearing a mask, and some of your activities were cancelled. That has brought up a lot of different feelings – sad, angry, worried, scared, confused. Did you know it’s OK to feel any feeling? Even the adults around you have felt those feelings too. When the feelings come, talk to a safe adult, journal, or draw about it. That helps!

I’m sure the feelings have continued to swirl with the start of school. Some of us are going back full-time, some part-time, and some will be learning at home. No matter where you will be learning, I hope you can feel the support of all the adults in your community and beyond. We know this school year feels different. We know it feels like you’re missing out on a lot. We continue to be proud of your strength and courage. You are the future, after all!

So think of this year as another way to show just how brave and kind you are. Be kind to those around you (even if they think about things differently), study hard, and do your part to stay healthy.

I wanted to share a short story with you. As we know, flowers grow with water, sunshine, and soil. However, I came across this amazing story of a flower that only blooms after extreme tragedy. A Baker’s Globe Mallow is a beautiful purple flower that only grows following a forest fire.

How does this relate to you? We are going through something really challenging now, but it is absolutely possible to thrive on the other end of a difficult situation. When you hear upsetting news about COVID-19, or when changes happen due to the virus, allow yourself to feel those feelings. But remember that this little purple flower made it out stronger. So will you.

Have a great school year!