This is hard. I absolutely do not mean to minimize the very real health and economic impacts that are being felt around the world. Every family is dealing with major changes and stressors. Everyone is worried for loved ones near and far. Some people's jobs and careers are on hold and finances are stretched thin, while others are going in to work every day to help get us through this crisis at great risk to themselves. Some are learning how to work from home while also being the teacher and child care provider; others are living alone and greatly missing contact with other people. Love to all of you, whatever your situation, wherever you live in the world.
So we're all staying home a lot more, and while there are certainly challenges in this new normal, there are also opportunities (some of which will only last for the stretch of time that we're doing the #stayhome). Here are some that I can think of:
- A chance to notice how much we need and love people - We've all heard how we look at our phones too much. But all I've heard this week is how much people miss seeing their friends and family, or how people are breaking rules in order to see friends and family. It turns out the phones and Netflix are waaaaay less appealing when that's all you've got, and what we really want is to all be together!
- A chance to see people helping people, and to be the helper - I've seen so much kindness on social media this week! People offering to help others, people posting helpful information (like senior shopping hours, local businesses that are open for curbside, where school kids can get food if needed, etc.). It's beautiful. Depending on circumstances, it's also a chance to be the helper. And it's a great chance to be praying for people.
- A chance to spend extra time with the family - Ironically, I wrote 2 months ago about some of the things that are lovely about homeschooling and that I would like to add more of in our life - I didn't anticipate that it was going to be *quite* such a "your wish is my command" situation. But lemonade from lemons, we've been able to add almost everything I wanted. We're having family dinners every night (also breakfast and lunch, and snacks #1, 2, and 3). Playing board games. Taking walks and getting out into nature. Getting to art kits and science projects and Pinterest crafts. Reading together a lot. Not that there hasn't been plenty of boredom and screen time and refereeing of fights - it turns out there's time for all of this AND quality time when you're together 24/7!
- A chance to re-evaluate the schedule - With every single activity wiped clean from the calendar, this is a very rare opportunity to notice the things you REALLY miss and the things you don't miss at all. To the extent that activities are optional, this is a chance to make some life revisions.
- A chance to give and receive grace - I don't know about you, but living in close quarters and under a stressful world situation has not brought out the best in me. I'm crabbier to everyone in the family, particularly Kenny. My kids are feeling the fear in the world and the major changes in routines, and they are having strong emotions. There are lots of moments every day where grace needs to be given and received, which is a perfect reminder of what we celebrate coming into the Easter season.
Please add your ideas and thoughts in the comments!
