This is the secret of success."
Swami Sivananda
Covid-19. Crazy times. How are you getting through it?
Much of life that is beyond our control but rarely are we so aware of this lack of control. Currently, that is all we can think about. There seems to be no control over Covid-19 and that fact is frightening. The medical community is working so hard, exposing themselves to this virus daily to help those infected. All of the “essential workers” are out there everyday doing what they can to keep us able to hunker and hide as best we can from this contagious disease. Unfortunately, there is no better time to surrender to, “Let Go and Let God”.
What does “Let Go and Let God” mean? Obviously, we surrender to the power greater than ourselves. Sadly, we have no power over this virus. It is taking the lives of a significant percentage of our family called humankind. This family of humankind, all over the world, is connected, struggling and fighting to survive this deadly disease.
Perhaps We Should All Pray
Suddenly becoming aware of how connected we all are, we notice how those connections have fostered the spread of this virus. The virus itself is under God’s power. Perhaps we should all pray taking time each day to pray for humankind.
Absolutely be specific and pray for those sick with this deadly disease. Clearly send blessing for those caring for the sick. Particularly ask for help for those carrying the disease that they become mindful and practice behaviors that will stop the spread. Certainly request protection for those who are ill, old and vulnerable to the disease. Especially ask for enlightenment for those who are young and feeling invincible, that they recognize they too need to be socially responsible and become more mindful of their behaviors.
Additonally, let us not forget to include blessings for the world and our nation. Pray we all get through this difficult time and rise to the occasion in doing what we can to help each other out. Ask that we learn to live in a manner that is socially responsible, connected and well meaning, here and across the globe.
What Can We Do?
Specifically what can we do while we hunker down in our homes for weeks, in order to stop the contamination of our fellow humans? Take this time to learn to take care of ourselves. Practice good hygiene and become mindful of our own practices. At the same time, stay away from social interactions. Conscientiously keep safe and healthy. In so doing, we take care of all those around us by not spreading this virus. Right now, this is our only course of action.
Thank God, most families have access to computers or smart phones. Skype, Facetime, Zoom or whatever other technology is out there to check in and connect with those we love. Obviously, encourage everyone you love to follow safe practices: no socializing, good hygiene, washing ourselves, all surfaces, all clothes that have been in contact with the world outside of our homes and stay positive. In addition, remind one another to support one another, love one another and look to the future. This too shall be behind us in what we all hope to be the not to distant future.
Think Ahead. Plan.
Other questions to ask yourself: Firstly, what can we do to feel productive during this time? Secondly, how do we help ourselves? Thirdly, are there strategies to help allay our fears, panic, depression and anxiety. I know that many of us are not working and therefore not making an income. However, the bills don’t stop piling up. Lack of money does not feed our families. Although this is true, you are not alone. Most of the population has these precise concerns.
We have time to get through. Nothing will rush our getting through this. We are all in the same situation. Bills will pile up. If there is no money coming in, you can’t pay those bills. Hence, the government has declared a state of emergency. Many of us are feeling like we can’t trust the government to take care of us. Maybe we can’t. So what can we be doing now, while hunkering down for 3 or more months?
Why not learn a new skill? Create a new you to market when life is up and running again. Think ahead and plan for the future. Almost everything can be learned online. Allow yourself to get creative. Permit yourself to get optimistic. And finally get moving forward even if you don’t leave the house!
This is the time that you never have time for! Use it. Think ahead. What will the world be looking like in a few months or more. What will be needed? Can you prepare? Additionally, how can you participate in what the world needs? Think creatively. Furthermore, be the best you can be now and in the future.