You got dressed, did your make up, and are almost ready to go. The lipstick! Yes, that bold red lipstick which I love. I hold it for a second and then leave it back on the make up bag. No lipstick these days. Instead we all have another assesorie: a mask.
Remember all the debates about masks? Remember going to the neighborhood shop and you saw that guy or lady entering in without a mask? Well, I do not panic now, neither do I want to be a "law guardian: as at the begining of the pandemic. But I do wear my mask. Because I love following laws. It makes me feel good. It makes me feel a responsible neighbor. It makes me feel a responsible citizen. And some people feel they are more protected.
Those people who do not wear masks feel good too. They feel good for being free. They don't like their freedom to be taken away. And they feel superior to us, the good citizens. They are smarter. They have understood the game behind masks, which we the good and obidient citizens have not yet understood. Open you eyes dude. Have you ever been told that?
Covid has brought into surface the level of tolerance we each can bear. More than a health crises it has been a moral crises, an intelectual crises. The pressure takes out of us either the good or the bad. Each of us have a level of tolerance toward pressure. Some of us are more sensitive to one aspect, while others to another one. Unfortunately we focus on what agravates us instead of what completes. Differences become a gap instead of taking the bridge of things that compliment us.
I believe that we could cope better if we keep each other shoulders, instead of fighting over ideas, conspiracy theories, restriction rules etc. One picture I have had in mind during this time, is that of those war movies we see, when you have to pass through a mined land, or a zone inhabited by dreadful creatures, like the no escape type movies. It is crucial for people stuck in those situations to stay together no matter what, to resolve any conflicts no matter what. Their survival stands on their ability to stand together and care for each other, keep each other's burdens. You are careful to not fall behind, as well others are vigilent to make sure that none is left behind. We need to do that now.
If you feel tired by the stress of covid, please reach out to others, do not stay behind. Call a friend, set up a zoom call or if possible have a coffee. Call your family.
It is proven that helping others or serving others in the community helps us take off eyes from our own problems, and brings a sense of happiness. Cook or bring a meal to an elderly or family in need. Do something nice for someone you know is struggling
Take brisk daily walks. Even a short trip to the grocery neighborhood shop (for those of us who don't live in remote areas) can be refreshing.
If you feel bored, why don't you try learning a new skill? There are plenty of free tutorials and apps that can teach you how to cook, play an instrument, learn photography, learn a new language, or even open a blog and exercize your writing.
If you believe in God, strengthen that relationship: practice solitude and meditation. As a Christian I have found practicing solitude a very rewarding practice. I try to spend 15 minutes every morning, after I send my kid to school, to read, pray and meditate. That has proved to be a very refreshing practice, as it gives the day a good start. I have noticed that I am more peaceful and calm during the day. I don't feel like carrying a heavy burden, and to be honest the news and the mess in the world loose power to affect me emotionally.
Here are some of the things I have found helpful during this time. What about you? What has helped you to keep focused, to maintain hope and a spirit of joy in the midst of uncertainty?
