This morning I became extremely aware that when I thought about the news of the day, I felt trapped. Every topic that came up steered me back to some aspect of the abortion controversy. It’s no wonder that we are obsessed with such an important issue, but it also occurred to me that I wanted to have multiple opportunities every day to free myself from the maelstrom. In the demands of our everyday lives, we have earned the right to have moments of peace, reflection, and normalcy.

So I’ve decided to find ways to create those moments for myself.

My husband and I went out to the gun range this morning. (Yes, I know that hardly sounds peaceful, but trust me on this.) There was something reassuring about unloading our backpack, loading each magazine, taking aim, and fully engaging in the task at hand. Slowing down. Gazing at the target. Grasping the gun firmly. Being fully present. Not surprisingly we both were pretty accurate in our practice. And had moments of serenity in that time we shared together. I think, too, that the idea we were doing something valuable to manage our lives, regardless of what happens in the outside world, was reassuring, too.

Since I don’t plan to spend hours or days at the gun range, I now have the opportunity to find other ways to create an eye in our cultural hurricane. It’s unlikely that I will forget that the winds are raging and that danger still exists. But it’s up to me to find that place where I can most be myself. Where I can breathe easily. Where I can appreciate the small things.

So when we toast each other at happy hour, maybe we can celebrate our usual invocation, “to love,” but also “to gratitude.” Or when I pour my cup of tea, I can breathe in its soft aroma. I can take a moment during the day to send prayers to friends who are ill or suffering. I can send an email to another friend just to say I’m thinking of her. The beauty of these gestures is that they not only allow me to comfort myself, but I can extend that experience to others. So many of us are caught in this overpowering disruption.

I hope you will find a way to create your own eye in the midst of the hurricane.