PERSPECTIVE

I was thinking this morning about World War Two, as so many comparisons have been drawn with that lately.  We may be at war with this microscopic enemy and profound hardships and fear will certainly result from that.   But we don't go to bed at night listening for a plane droning overhead, or be awakened in the night by the terrifying air raid sirens.   We don't have to rush fearfully into shelters to await for the worst to be over, not knowing if our homes will be standing when we emerge.  Our loved ones are not being sent away for years with only the most rudimentary ways to communicate with their loved ones.   And it is not for four long years, hopefully, not even for four months.   We can go outside and enjoy nature and there is no shortage of good food as long as we keep our heads and not succumb to herd mentality.  Most of all, we can take proven steps to avoid the enemy, and they are not difficult.  I won't repeat them because if they are not already ingrained into your brain, you probably don't have one.

I am not for one second minimizing the gut-wrenching seriousness of this.  My husband and my son-in-law are on the front lines every single day, and that takes real courage.  Fear has rightfully earned a spot in our lives, but it doesn't have to be given the best seat in the house.   It's there to keep you sharp, that's its job and I respect that.   Beyond that though, I'm determined not to let it steal anything more.  All the canceled events, courses, parties, classes, memberships will still be there when this is over and I have no doubt that we will all be wiser and have a lot more gratitude for the things we have taken for granted. In the meantime, hang on to perspective as best you can, and remind yourself we're in for the long haul.  Today here on the Island the sun is warm and spring is well on the way.  I spent an hour sitting on the pavement having a fierce marbles tournament with my sweet grandson Benjamin.   Kids have a way of restoring your equilibrium without you even noticing and it is such a sweet mental holiday.  Make room in your life to find something worth celebrating and keep looking for the good in all.  I have noticed that even though we now have to stroll 20 feet away from others, they still smile, wave and wish me a good morning.  And that matters, it really does.  We still have that freedom, and that is everything.