As we settled into 2020, the year began with a sense of optimism and promise. With the dawn of a new decade, we all envisioned a fresh start—new goals, better selves, and brighter outcomes. Yet, as is often the case with resolutions, many of these aspirations faded away by just a couple of weeks in, lost to the whirlwind of daily life and its uncontrollable demands.
I had committed to improving my eating habits, slowing down a bit, and dedicating more quality time to my family. However, juggling a busy career as a mother of three, each involved in various activities and therapy sessions, turned weekends into a frantic race to catch up on chores. My goal of relaxation quickly slipped away amidst the chaos, and I found myself overwhelmed, often expressing my stress on those closest to me. The year was veering off course.
Then, as if the universe hit pause, everything came to a standstill. Schools shuttered, businesses followed suit, and our lives transformed into a shared space where we were together 24/7. Sports ceased, extracurriculars vanished, and therapy sessions shifted to the living room. Suddenly, my meticulously crafted schedule became irrelevant, which could have sent a planner like me into a tailspin.
Navigating this unprecedented time has brought its share of challenges. I’ve felt the weight of anxiety concerning my family’s safety, ensuring we have everything we need, and managing the complexities of homeschooling. While my friends seemed to handle the shift effortlessly, I struggled to assist my eight-year-old with basic reading comprehension, feeling lost in the uncertainty of each day.
For those of us with a Type-A personality, the pandemic has felt like a harsh lesson in relinquishing control. Plans became obsolete, and we found ourselves at the mercy of a virus that reshaped our lives. However, amidst the chaos, I’ve discovered certain truths. While I can’t dictate the external circumstances, I can choose my reactions and attitudes. I can foster positivity and gratitude for our blessings, appreciate the resources we have, and make the most of our time together.
While I cannot prevent meltdowns over challenging assignments, I can design a flexible school schedule that incorporates fun activities to break the monotony. I can encourage family outings in our neighborhood, prioritize exercise, and express my love during this uncertain time.
Finding tranquility during these days can be challenging, yet it is a choice we must embrace. It’s easy to succumb to anxiety, but recognizing the blessings of this time can be transformative. We’ve been forced to pause, and within that stillness, we can gain clarity on what truly matters. We’ve learned to value the essential contributions of first responders and those serving our communities. This period has taught us resourcefulness and the importance of distinguishing between what we need and what we can live without.
It’s an opportune moment to support those who are less fortunate and work toward equality for all. Together, we can uplift one another, fostering love and compassion.
I’ve made a conscious choice to embrace this time, relishing each day rather than rushing through life. Our days shouldn’t be counted down or wasted; they are meant to be savored. In this unpredictable time, my goal is to create lasting memories with my family—ones that will overshadow the stress and highlight our shared adventures.
Whether you’re clocking in for a demanding shift at the hospital, juggling conference calls with a toddler at home, navigating unemployment for the first time, or balancing work deadlines with a distractible third grader, I hope we can all find tranquility amidst the chaos. Despite the stress, there lies the potential for each day to present something remarkable—after all, we’ve never lived this day before.
Life may be challenging right now, and that’s okay. We can control how we approach each day, and with all the time we have, let’s make it meaningful. The year 2020 still holds promise.
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In summary, while quarantine has disrupted our lives, it has also provided an opportunity for reflection, growth, and connection. Embracing this time allows for new memories and a renewed appreciation for what truly matters.
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