It is difficult to know what to write about this unprecedented time of world-wide sickness and isolation. We’ve never shared in such events before. While there are slight differences in the responses by the leaders of different countries and states (even counties!), the reality is that we are all fighting this “unseen” virus called COVID-19. I’m currently in my Day #52 of my isolation. Of course, “isolation” isn’t complete because I do have my husband who comes home at night and is here for most of the weekend. But—I have been almost entirely within our four walls and cut off from family and friends for the duration of this time. Is that a tragedy? No. But, it is a challenge.
I realized on Day #50 that I was very tired of three distinct realities of this isolation:
I’m tired of my place. Staying within the four walls of our townhome should have been comforting, but it has become very confining.
I’m tired of keeping my own company. I do use the various social platforms and communication means to connect with others, but I’m spending far too much time in the company of only myself.
I’m tired of eating my own cooking. Of course, take-away is possible, but it seems foolish to spend the money on restaurant food when I’m home all the time anyway.
These sound like complaints or the agenda of a pity party, but they really aren’t. I’m just trying to be honest in my description of my feelings and connect with others in the same situation. What is the antidote to this depressing list? Gratitude. Yes, the rehearsing of the many blessings and gifts in my life changes my focus away from my situation onto the God who is always good.
Many years ago we had a friend who taught that what we usually do when praying is “gaze” at our problems and “glance” towards God. But the only possibility of altering our attitude is to “glance” at our problems and “gaze” upon God. That’s my goal for myself and challenge for you, the reader. Join me in this guaranteed solution to surviving our current situation.
Gratefully yours,
Dianne