It’s been a while since I wrote my last blog. I’ve had ideas, but nothing that stood out that I thought might create interest or instill hope. The world is in a bit of a mess right now and that alone is causing our brains to shut down or at least mine.
I am finding this new crisis to be a culmination of every grieving experience I’ve ever had. First of all, we have lost our sense of safety and security. The news changes minute to minute and it leaves us feeling more and more vulnerable. The fear for our lives, our future and the wellbeing of our country is palpable. No matter who you talk with or come into contact with, there is the look of fear in their eyes. Their body language is that of discomfort. The inability to touch and to hug is literally pulling the rug from under us. We, as a nation, are used to comforting gestures on a daily basis. The lack of that comfort is making a bad situation worse by the lack of human contact.
We feel the possibility we may lose our health and even die from this invisible monster. Loss of heath is a grieving experience for many Americans. Some have loss of physical health while others may lose their mental health. It is a treacherous road that many trudge each and every day. Some have good medical care and some do not. Some have multiple resources and some sleep outside, hoping for good weather. Some have families and friends and a good support network. Some have nothing and no one to support them. So at times, such as these, we need to look out for each other, because no matter where you fit, we are all feeling the same fear.
We are grieving life as we knew it. We miss our restaurants and theme parks, our schools and our shopping malls. We miss our festivals and family gatherings and just hanging out with our friends. Gyms and coffee shops are closed and graduations and other milestone events have been cancelled. This is a loss we have never felt before, not as a people and not as a nation. How do we process such a loss?
We are grieving for other countries affected by this vicious monster. Hearing news of thousands dying alone and buried alone, quickly, to make room for more. It is heartbreaking to think how lives have been turned upside down by something we can’t see or feel. It is so far out of our realm of thinking that we just can’t process the enormity of the situation. How do we find hope right now?
I think we have to return to the simple things that we often take for granted. A phone call to check in with someone, maybe someone you’ve been away from, estranged from, or maybe someone who lives alone. Just hearing a voice can make someone’s day. I don’t know if sending a card is ok, but if so, it is another wonderful way to reach out. Checking on neighbors, sending emails, ecards or texts if the recipient has this capability. Sharing your excess with those who need it and can’t get to the store or maybe can’t afford extras.
These are the times that show who we really are inside and outside. Most of us haven’t ever had to go without and this is a test of our ability to be resourceful. We will be stronger than this monster. Yes, we will be hurt and we will lose loved ones and we may even lose our ability to live our current lifestyle, but it cannot take away who we are and how we choose to handle this crisis. People are innately good and when faced with adversity, pull out all the stops to help each other make it to the other side. I admire those people the most, the selfless, kind, giving people, the ones who make a difference.
My maze is filled tonight with people who are afraid, afraid of the future. Let’s take each other’s hand as we wind through and help each other if we stumble. Let’s look out for each other, the old, the young and everyone in between. Let’s help each other by reaching out, by listening, by being by each other’s side even if we are apart, until we get this all figured out. The monster will eventually be gone and in its wake will be those helpers, those wonderful people who fought the war together, standing tall, holding hands, hugging and high fiving and knowing that no matter what, we don’t ever give up on each other. It is much easier to ride out a storm if you have others in your boat.
Love and prayers to all affected. May you be comforted knowing we all care about you.

