Something to Learn in the Darkness

The Corona Virus has us all living our lives differently. We spend our days outside of the home hoping that we will not catch something then bring it back to our families. We spend our time at home thinking, resting, and praying for those who have to be out amongst the people. The most of the usual things we did have been cancelled or postponed, so we suddenly have time on our hands.

I went to the grocery store today and for the first time in my life I saw sections with empty shelves and entire product lines gone. The things we usually purchase were not there with no idea when they might arrive again. So we made other plans or did without. It is not the end of the world it just helps us reevaluate what we need compared to what we want or what we have gotten used to having. The day to day luxuries have been set aside for the basic needs we have to sustain during this time of uncertainty.

Leaving the grocery store on this grey, rainy day I thought about the Great Depression, the world wars, and the natural disasters where life was suddenly very limited. Going without has a way of putting everything else into perspective. I read this quote from Helen Keller many times, today it had a different ring to it. This pandemic is forcing us all to be brave and patient. This global situation is reminding us to put back on our thinking caps, refresh our cup of kindness and let our compassion for others shine as we endure the unknown.

Sure we are all facing the unknown, and yes there is fear and anxiety each morning and with each human interaction. None of us would have chosen this, yet we cannot avoid it. Maybe we can let this time remind us of what we value, who we love, and what we really need to live. Everything else is wonderful and will bring joy back into our world once we have grown braver and more patient. Thank you Helen for reminding us that there is something to learn even in darkness.