So, what did the past few months mean to you? Anything?
It’s very easy to only focus on the negative aspect of what the pandemic brought into our lives. And it’s obvious that it’s not going away soon. You’ll still see Covid-19 safety information in South Africa and most other countries whether you go to the store, the doctor or even while filling your car with fuel. And of course, it’s on the news EVERY DAY.
So, you can’t get away from it. But does that mean it must leave a blemish on your year? More importantly, what about your kids’ year? Remember, the way YOU approach this season of your life is how they will approach it too. So, instead of only focusing on the negative, what are good things you can take away from this?
And yes, there are quite a few!
When Tough Times Come, Humanity CAN Stand Together
One of the most encouraging aspects of these past few months was to see how people worked together. Churches, charities, businesses and ordinary people made plans to feed the needy, boost each other’s spirits and keep hope alive. Whether you watched videos of people singing from their windows or heard a news story about food being delivered to a local community, you know the good news is out there. It confirms that humanity CAN be good to each other.
Patience
Nobody wants to learn this lesson but once you do, you realise its power and importance: patience transforms your life. If you don’t get irritated because you can’t yet get on a plane to go on holiday or you don’t get angry anymore because deliveries are late, aren’t your days more peaceful?
You’re Stronger and More Resourceful than You Think
Are you one of the people who had to search for an alternative source of income? Then we salute you! Perhaps you simply helped a friend start up a new business or created a vegetable garden since you had more time on your hands than usual. Or are you the parent that had to find ways to keep the kids busy?
No matter how you spent the past few months, chances are you had to change your habits, find new ways to ‘do life’ and rethink the future. What does that mean? You’ve proven how adaptable you are and that you can survive a situation none of us planned for. Take courage in that truth and have faith in yourself that you can do even more in future.
You Can Make do with Less
With habits changing and resources adjusting, many of us got creative. Did you take up woodwork because you can’t play golf with your buddies? Did you try out new recipes with the ingredients you have on hand because you don’t want to go to the store too often? See? You made a plan and made the best of the day, even though it wasn’t everything you wanted. Our children will be much happier if they are content even if there’s less available to them.
Final Thoughts
Not in the mood for some life lessons? Take a moment and imagine what these ideas can mean for your child in the long run. And for you. It’s worth it to change your perspective.
