Getting Our Bearings
Three Little Words
Getting Our Bearings by debgrant
WHY? Let’s start with a definition: “Getting our bearings” means to figure out our location or situation, to orient ourselves in a new place or confusing circumstances, or to become familiar with something new so we know how to act, similar to how a navigator uses a compass to find direction.
Most of us are familiar with those maps with a pinpoint that says, “You are Here” to establish our location and help us decide how to move forward.
When we see and read these three little words, two things happen: (1) The truth is spoken. (2) They offer us an opportunity to get our bearings - to establish our location, to consider our options, our next steps.
If ever there was a time in our lives when we needed a way to get our bearings, it is now. Truth is hard to come by. This statement is a little way to pause, stand in the truth that we are here, look around at our situation, who is with us, what we care about, what we value, and plan our next step.
I suspect all of us have different ways in which we do this, and I encourage you to use whatever works for you. May it be intentional and imbued with truth and compassion. If you are looking for an option for getting your bearings, I offer this one: You are Here. (Examples: Write it on a note and tape it to your mirror, or take a picture of the note in your handwriting and make it the home screen for your phone or computer.)
I am one of many students of mosaicist Rachel Sager, who has challenged her students to incorporate the phrase You are Here in mosaic pieces for display in a variety of indoor, outdoor, public, and private venues.
I have created several small mosaics(see gallery below) for friends, like the one for Nancy pictured above. Nancy is a friend celebrating her 90th birthday. Her favorite color is yellow. In spite of the limitations of her age, she is grateful for this way of getting her bearings and glad to be a witness to resilience and life.
If you are interested in owning or gifting one of my You Are Here mosaics, let me know. I may not be speedy, but I will do the best I can to make it happen for you.
I hope this helps you in the living of these days.
Peace,
debgrant
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You are Here Gallery by debgrant
