During times like this (I hope I never see the likes of this again), it can be difficult to remember what we should be grateful for. I’m grateful for a roof over my head, food in my belly, good health and the good health of my loved ones and, hopefully, a thriving business when it’s up and running again. I think it’s important to pause in the midst of our busy lives, take a few deep breaths and experience the healing energy of gratitude — to focus on the positive, not the negative, during the coronavirus.

While we self isolate, take a look around at your family members. When will you have another opportunity to spend so much time with them? To give your full attention to your children and answer their questions and be fully present for these teachable moments. To lead by example (flip out in private, please) so that you reassure your kids that everything will be OK; different but OK.

I hope that we, as a society, make the necessary changes so that we have a more equitable society — housing, food, jobs, education and health care for everyone! A government that works for all of us, not just the advantaged. We, the people, can make this happen. We have the power with our votes!

My wish for this holiday season is that we no longer turn a blind eye to all forms of injustice, from racism to income inequality. It’s time to pull together and remember what binds us, not what separates us. We’re all human, regardless of race, religion, political beliefs, etc. We all have similar needs — to love and be loved, to work at something meaningful and to feel that our lives matter.

I love reading stories about how so many people are pitching in to help their neighbors and others through this pandemic. I hope we don’t forget what we’ve learned when our lives go forward to our new normal.

I know how difficult it is to “look on the bright side of things” during a time of such uncertainty. For those of you suffering from depression, substance use disorder or other forms of mental illness, please know that there is help just a phone call or email away. Please reach out to those around you and let them know you’re struggling. You are not alone.

For those of you who believe in a higher power, prayer is very powerful. I can’t stress enough about getting outside in the sun and fresh air. You don’t even have to go for a walk; just sit outside in nature and take some deep breaths.

A word about fostering and adopting a pet during this time. Only do it if you can take care of an animal’s needs after you return to work. If you don’t have the time, energy or finances to properly care for a pet going forward, please don’t adopt. That cute animal depends on you for food, love, health care, etc. It’s a responsibility to take care of another being (something like kids) and not something to do halfway.

We have two cats (Coco and Lucy) and my precious Pomeranian, Teddy, inherited from my son (sometimes I prefer the dog to the adult child!). I’ve fallen totally in love with him and vice versa. I work from home so my pets get plenty of attention but that’s not everyone’s lifestyle.

This is a good time to reach out to others while you’re self-isolating. I’ve been keeping in touch with people around the country (and I’m not on social media!). I call, text or email on a regular basis to make sure those I love are OK. Yes, it’s time consuming but well worth it.

I’m enjoying this time where life is a little slower and I feel more connected to people than ever before. I will continue to keep in touch after life returns to a more hectic routine. I don’t want to forget what I’ve learned during this time.

Let’s all move forward into the future more aware of those around us — to offer a smile or a helping hand when needed. God bless.

 

This article was posted at the Wayland Wicked Local — > https://wayland.wickedlocal.com/news/20200416/debra-goldman-of-wayland-gratitude-during-pandemic