Stress! Worry! Uncertainty! 2020 was a year to remember! In pondering all the challenges of change that have occurred over the year, we can reflect on, and learn much from, the experience!
Connection with Loved Ones
“Love is our true destiny. We do not find the meaning of life by ourselves alone—we find it with another.”
~ Thomas Merton
Even before the pandemic, loved ones tried to stay close to elder members of the family. The transition brought forth a need for technology. Phone calls were not enough; video conferencing eased hearts as grandparents, parents, and children could look into each other’s eyes and verify health. The unusual circumstances required a conversation to understand medical needs. Is there one person in the family who has vital information such as the name of doctors, medications, and medical history? In moments of a health emergency, it’s good to have a plan in place so that everyone can remain calm.
Mental Health Awareness
“The strongest people are not those who show strength in front of us, but those who win battles that we know nothing about!” ~ Author Unknown
During 2020, the words, “I worry about you,” were said more than once. A time of isolation led to a conversation about mental health. We can look at the statistics to discover that the largest age group impacted is teenagers. Forty-six percent is a significant number. The struggles in living with anxiety, panic disorders, depression, PTSD, and OCD require not just resources, but in some cases, medication and treatment. Begin by openly talking about the condition and learning how you can offer support!
Invest More in Friendships
“True friendship comes when the silence between two people is comfortable.” ~ David Tyson Gentry
The answer to our mental health and well-being lies in social interaction and human contact, whether it’s through working, recreation, or entertainment venues. This year, families invested in board games, video games for four and six people, and cards. In the transition of returning to meetings and small gatherings, friends finally put their phones down and started talking and laughing again! Don’t stop the momentum! Keep your devices in your purses and start living in the moment with people who add to your life!
Opening Your Home to Adoptions
“Saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever.”
~ Karen Davinson
Countless news headlines have featured the increase in pet adoptions! In a time when we feel lonely and isolated, the one opportunity to create companionship is in allowing a four-legged friend into our home! For dog, cat, rabbit, or bird lovers, the ability to care for another helps our own health and stress levels! Many shelters transitioned from housing animals in their kennels to foster homes. You, too, can become a nurturing influence to an animal who needs love, care, and attention until he or she finds a forever home!
Food Storage and Essentials Items
“Always start out with a larger pot than what you think you need.” ~ Julia Child
Toilet paper? Soft Soap? As shelves emptied for long periods, it renewed a promise to change shopping habits. The days of buying fresh, or only when close to running out, are over. Because of the limitations in buying essential meats, paper goods, and other products, we need to start stocking up. If you’re finished with a roll of toilet paper, start buying two; therefore, you always have extra. The same applies to canned and freezer goods. Start researching how to make disinfectant wipes, and transition to baking soda, distilled vinegar, and lemon juice for cleaning purposes. In addition to always having a supply, you’ll also save money!
Through every experience, we can rethink our priorities and make changes that influence our health, well-being, and social connections. Despite the worry, there are countless blessings and a desire to be better prepared!
