Life as we know it just got flipped on its head. I had plans to blog about the typical spring cleaning and organizing topics – and I will continue to do so. That still has a place in our lives – perhaps more than ever as so many of us are home and tackling projects that we didn’t make time for in the past.
But, right now, as we adjust to working, living and teaching in a stay-at-home and social distancing environment, this topic seems most relevant. Let’s put the kids’ learning objectives aside for a minute (there’s plenty of focus on those), and dive into the lessons we can learn from our stay-at-home spring – things worthy of deliberately carrying forward once this is all behind us. I like this quote I’ve seen all over social media:
In the rush to return to normal, use this time to consider which parts of normal are worth rushing back to.
DAVE HOLLIS
1. Community is Important
There’s a palpable sense that we’re all in this together. It’s powerful, and can combat the divisiveness that is rampant in our politics and our culture at large. Community does not mean everyone holds the same beliefs or values. On the contrary, it is richer when filled with diversity of thought and experiences. But, it does mean we’re looking out for the greater good. We’ve been reminded that humanity should be viewed through the lens that reveals each us as as being more fundamentally alike than we are different. Each of us is worthy of feeling safe, cared for and loved for, regardless of geography or human circumstances.
There are many examples of community that I’ve either witnessed or heard about during these times…encouraging notes written with sidewalk chalk, thank you messages for essential workers, dedicated shopping hours for seniors, songs over Zoom calls, virtual prayer and church services, free online workouts and resources, and strangers exchanging knowing smiles.
2. Kindness is Everywhere
The news is certainly filled with an abundance of grim statistics, but there is another side to the news – that which showcases humanity’s ability to show up. When faced with extremity, we’re also faced with opportunity. Kindness is innate in each of us.
People on the front lines are serving with selflessness. And, countless citizens are giving their time, money, ingenuity, and prayers to equip, comfort and bless others.
3. There is Beauty in Slowing Down
The world moves at breakneck speed, along with our schedules, and those of our families. Sometimes a gentle nudge isn’t enough to make us notice and adjust. Sometimes it takes circumstances where we have no other choice but to slow down. We can’t run errands, shuttle the kids, or squeeze in one more appointment or meeting.
This at home time has prompted a fundamental return to the basics, to the things that matter. Family. Time together. Games. Creating. Cooking. Moving. Taking a Walk. Getting Outside.
4. Being Outside is A Blessing
The great outdoors has been a saving grace for me and many others. Rain or shine, getting some fresh air buoys moods and breaks the mesmeric and fearful thoughts that can run on repeat when we’re stuck inside.
It is a gift to be able to get out and move freely. We are reminded of the vastness, beauty and order of creation.
5. People Are Resilient
We’re all doing our best to adapt/survive during this time. Our kids are included in this. They’re incredibly resilient. Their lives got turned around, too. Their support systems, schedules, activities and plans were upended. They may have questions and fears. And they now have mom or dad as a “teacher”?! This hasn’t been an easy road, but they’re doing their best to adjust. May we all extend ourselves and others some grace in this space.
Many people on the front lines are working tirelessly to care for others, ill equipped, and on little sleep. May we buoy them up. Our economy is taking a hit. It has taken hits in the past and it will rebound. Our sense of security feels shaken. But, fear will not win.
6. Creativity Abounds
Businesses are adapting at the drop of a hat. Restaurants are offering curbside pickup, delivering meals, and selling pizza kits to make at home. Neighborhood kids are figuring out how to play “together” while observing social distancing. People are utilizing technology to celebrate special occasions. And, downtime is encouraging our kids to be resourceful and to play.
This creativity was always there. It took a catalyst to awaken it. But, it has always been there and will continue to be. We will need it, moving forward.
7. Stuff is Overrated
Bigger and more is better, right? More activities, higher goals, better car, bigger home, more possessions. The list goes on. Though none of those things is inherently bad, in my opinion, they’re each worth revisiting.
Many people have been spending more time organizing and paring down possessions, as of late. This is a time of realizing what matters and what doesn’t. What contributes to happiness and what doesn’t. Let’s remember this in the future.
8. Technology Can Be a Connector
I’ve definitely been on the bandwagon that feels technology and social media pose more issues than benefits, particularly for our kids. But, we’re seeing how technology can be used for good. It is being used to connect people, disseminate information, teach and inspire others. It is enabling us to mimic human interaction the best we can. And, technology is promoting commerce in the absence of brick and mortar transactions, and it is supporting the productivity of remote workers across the globe.
9. Teachers Rock
Last, but not least….teachers are amazing. We all knew this. I knew this. I have many amazing teachers in my family and have had a first hand glimpse into their world for years. But, it really hits home when you’re suddenly walking a day in their shoes…but only with your own kids, not the 20+ they skillfully deal with day in and day out. From classroom management and motivating different learners, to dealing with squabbles, fielding questions, tears and triumphs, teachers handle this with enthusiasm, patience and joy. God bless.
These are challenging times, no doubt – at the global and local levels. The journey is not easy. We will not come out of this the same. But, we will come out of this together. And, we get to choose what we bring with us.