Image by Tumisu from Pixabay
I’m not sure if it’s because I’m a rule follower, or because I’m in the “risk” category, or both, but I’ve kept the six-foot distance-or the “two supermarket carts apart” in stores-rule for weeks. Most friends in my age bracket have done the same and I haven’t had a hug or kiss from my grands since mid-March.
The upside is sheltering at home has allowed me to complete projects–those I said I’d get to “when I have time”. That I have had. My days, aside from writing, have included cleaning closets, spreading mulch, and organizing photos. One look at my calendar shows blank squares, pathetically bare of appointments or fun places to go. My dining room table has no place settings for family.
But my horizontal life-staying home and maintaining a six-foot distance from people-doesn’t mean I haven’t traveled. My coffee and longer quiet time early morning, Bible study, a plethora of worship opportunities Sunday morning, and Zoom discussions and prayer meetings, have offered much vertical life while in staying in place.
It’s been joy when new and familiar Bible passages have been revealed to ponder and discuss with friends.
My blank calendar offers the opportunity to reevaluate and decide how I want to fill in spaces when this crisis ends.
I’ve been retraining my thinking and adjusting my focus on what is important, necessary, urgent, or desirable.
Refreshment in quiet and solitude without interruption to get to a scheduled event, has been welcomed.
At night I purposely remember what each day looks like-softer, no rush; gentler, no time requirements; sensitivity to those in difficult places; and greater appreciation of human contact I’ve missed.
Though I’ve had the freedom and opportunity to check off my list of tasks and sit in quiet, the severity and effects of the pandemic are not lost on me. Two friends are grieving. One checks with staff daily on her elderly mother who resides in a nursing home where no visitors are allowed. I know several weddings moved from beautiful venues to a backyard or a living room with a limit of ten guests. Yes, many have suffered physically, financially, and emotionally.
Our social guidelines during this pandemic measure distance horizontally, and six feet is the rule for the way we currently live. As we prayerfully ponder personal changes and support those experiencing serious effects, we can reflect and reposition. Let’s remember we can stretch vertically where there is no rule or space.
How have you traveled while maintaining distance?
Marilyn, your description of quarantine incites peace in my spirit. You calmly describe positive uses of and adjustment to troubled times.
Your statement, “I’ve been retraining my thinking and adjusting my focus on what is important, necessary, urgent, or desirable,” says a lot.
I believe your post will minister to many. Thank you.
Thank you Connie. Marilyn
With all the fervor surrounding this latest epidemic, I too have taken extra precautions. Because my wife is in the high-risk category with several underlying health conditions, that’s put the majority of tasks onto me. I gladly accept these added responsibilities to ensure her safety. Other than having more to do each day, I can’t say that my life has been impacted that much, for good or bad. My only regret is seeing how the enforced “social distancing” has affected the moods of so many. When I shop, I try to remember to look for the directional arrows on the aisle, give space to others, etc.; but I am saddened to see how few people will interact with me. Smiles are not returned, offers to help reach something is often refused. Heads down, keep to ourselves, don’t make eye contact or interact with anyone around you. Those are symptoms of fear; and not the way God intends His people to live. I join you in hoping this ends soon. I miss hugs as much as anything. 🙂 God’s blessings my friend.
JD, thanks for adding the symptoms of fear. The intended social distancing has evolved into fearful distancing-no nods, smiles, or conversation. I appreciate your smiles via comments on a regular basis. Thank you. Stay well! Marilyn
I love your reflections here, Marilyn. My time in the Word has deepened as well. What a sweet time! But I miss seeing my parents and I grieve for those who’ve experienced a loss of any type through this difficult time. Thank you for being light in the darkness!
I agree. It’s especially hard for those who can’t have a funeral or get hugs and support face to face. I’ve missed people in my home around my table and being around others’ tables too. Prayerfully we will get back soon. Marilyn
Thanks for your reflections, Marilyn. I miss being with people face to face, but I’ve loved the slower pace at home (even though I’m working from home). It’s less rushed and I’m not running from one thing to the next. I feel that this time has been a gift from God and given me time to focus on writing Bible studies without interruptions. But I do grieve for those who are separated from parents and loved ones, those without jobs and income, those who are on the front lines or have loved ones on the front lines. Hopefully, this season will end soon, but while I’m in the middle of it, I want to embrace each day and what God has for me. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and encouragement!
So well said, Crickett. Thanks for adding your reflections. Marilyn
God is using this time to show me what’s important. I’m enjoying long times of fellowship with Him on our deck. Like you, I miss hugs from grandchildren. Thank you, Marilyn, for this beautiful, peaceful post that also reminds me what’s important.
This was so refreshing to read! My schedule hasn’t really changed much, aside from not gathering with friends and family. Because of the continued business, I haven’t had any time to slow down. This was a great reminder about focusing on what’s truly important. 🙂
Thanks for sharing, Emily. We can easily get caught up in the media and our distractions. Pausing to go vertical has great value.Marilyn
Great post, Marilyn. I have traveled my neighborhood, praying for families and delivering cookies. My time in the Word, reading the book of Acts has refreshed my vision of our BEING the church despite what is raging around us. And my writing is brought about thinking about just what the fulcrum of faith is…(blogged about that today)
Jeanne, I love that prayer walk and cookies idea in the neighborhood. I distributed treat bags with a note to have a bright and healthy day. We can still do our part to “be” the church even when the building is closed. Thanks for sharing. Marilyn
Love this Marilyn. We’ve been thinking similar thoughts. Seems like social distancing is the theme. I just wrote a blog on it and then saw both yours and J.D.’s. I think the horizontal and vertical imaging is just perfect! Thank you.
I loved the horizontal and vertical imaging. Thank you for these thoughts. My schedule is much the same, as most of my work connects me with missionaries across the globe online. Your post was a great reminder.
Thanks Sylvia. Yes, regardless of our schedule, we can move vertically. Marilyn
Thanks for sharing, Sylvia and adding to the conversation. Marilyn