Like many of you, I’ve been pondering about the state of our nation - and even of the entire world. Notwithstanding the crises before my time (wars, financial crashes, etc.), with the exception of 9/11 I don’t recall in my lifetime our nation facing such humility as we are right now with the threat and reality of this health pandemic. Yet humility quells pride and can render us malleable and teachable. It pushes us to focus on the things most important to us, and if we pay attention, we can gain wisdom and be all the better for it. During this time of testing, as we sort out the difficulties of COVID-19 and its effects within our city, state, nation and world, let us allow ourselves the opportunity to remain optimistic and steadfast, and by all means, teachable. These are qualities that have defined us as Americans since the inception of our great nation.
At a recent Longview Police award ceremony, Officer BJ Mortensen graciously received the award of Officer of the Year. In his final comments he stated that there are two things we can control in our lives; our attitude and our effort. True on both accounts. How can we expect any more from our officers that sacrifice daily on behalf of the citizens? How can we apply those same two words to the situation we face now with COVID-19?
Each new day we wait for more information that defines our new normal: washing hands for 20 seconds, elbow touching, social distancing, Web-ex meetings, restaurants closed, schools closed, businesses closed, flights canceled, appointments rescheduled, making a new plan. What is left but to hope for the future?
Who knew that there would be a run on toilet paper? Who knew we would be homeschooling our children and be quarantined to our own homes?
As I look through this new lens, I try to see the opportunities: We “get” to spend more time with families. We “get” to catch up on home projects. We “get” to center ourselves and realize our potentials and opportunities and focus on what is most important. We “get” to serve in a whole new way. We “get” a reset.
When the chips are down, when we are faced with difficult circumstances or the outcome isn’t what we expect, what can we learn from these moments? For today, let’s just pause and take a deep breath. A small tweak here and there. A little effort and an attitude filled with hope will go a long way and I will bet the results will be amazing.
Please view the latest COVID-19 videos
Economic impacts video: https://youtu.be/PcXFnsW2jG0
Mask video: https://youtu.be/-YS6XCH07uA
Be brave friends!
We are in this together,
MaryAlice