I read a post on Facebook a week or so ago entitled “We Are Not in the Same Boat.” The beginning of the post said, “We are in the same storm, but were not in the same boat.”
This is an extremely true sentiment. The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown us all for a loop. For some, it’s been really easy while for others it’s been an extremely difficult time. People are experiencing a range of new challenges from not having income to homeschooling their children.
Everything is going on all at one time and life may seem to be completely out of control. In many instances, some things are definitely out of our control.
I want to take a few minutes to encourage you to hang in there.
I know from experience, life can be hard. I’ve been there. As a single parent of two, I remember not having money or knowing how I was going to keep food on the table and more. While I wasn’t in a pandemic, I understand the fear of this virus drastically adds to things.
Let’s look at a few things that may help you to relax, if just for a moment. Sometimes we just need a “minute.”
Take a deep breath. Right now, close your eyes and just take a deep breath. Breathe in through your nose and out of your mouth. Try taking a deep breath every day.
Pray. Seek wisdom, comfort and peace in God.
Talk to someone. Whether it be a trusted friend, therapist or pastor. Don’t allow life to overtake you. Talk it through and get it out.
Make time for you. Even if it's only 15 minutes, take a few minutes just for you. Be intentional about self-care.
Laugh. While I know what’s happening around is no laughing matter, laughter really is good for the soul. A good laugh can change the atmosphere.
Parents:
Hug your kids. Kids really are resilient. As long as they know they’re loved, they will be ok. Trust me!
Stop being so hard on yourself. You are doing the best you can with what you have. Acknowledge that. Say it right now--I’m really doing the best that I can with what I currently have.
Stop stressing over homeschool. I know everyone doesn’t have access to online schooling. Talk to teachers, friends and family for help. Your children may have to work a little harder when school starts back up, but it's ok.
Pay the bills you can pay. Call your mortgage company, landlord and utility companies to see what resources they have available for financial assistance.
Ask for help. We all need help at some time in our life.
The storm is the storm and we can’t stop it but we can choose to let the storm overtake us or as they say “dance in the rain.” Be encouraged. We will make it through. Take it one day at a time and …..breathe through it.