By Tony Rankin
These strange days of COVID-19 and the impact of tornados cause us to feel like we are juggling chainsaws on a tightrope. You may be afraid to choose the wrong move. You may be fearful of making a decision too quickly. You may think you don’t have what it takes to survive difficult days. You may be nervous to handle the unknown. Your chainsaws may include uncertainties, the realities about sickness and death, and the sameness of staying at the house most of the time. Try these ideas often:
Take the warnings seriously. It’s so easy to assume it won’t be as bad as it was in China, Korea, Italy, New York, or New Orleans. Occasionally we avoid warnings because we are fearful of what might really happen, don’t want to be told what to do, or don’t believe the news, doctors, or governmental leaders. The pictures and video images of ambulances lining up, white tents being erected in various parts of Nashville, and daily warnings remind us of the serious nature of the hidden virus.
Be realistic. Soon it will be the illness of a friend, neighbor, colleague, church member, or a family member who is struggling with the dreaded test result or symptoms of COVID-19. The reality of the pandemic is everywhere. Accept the fears of the unknown and don’t pretend it’s not near you.
Deal with the sameness. Remember when you used to dread going to work, sitting in traffic, rushing home to fix supper, and scrambling to get to dance practice, soccer scrimmages, or a baseball game? Currently we wish we could be on the move, but now we are asked to stay home. So being stuck makes us get bored with nothingness, get tired of staring at the same walls, and having plenty of time to wish we were too busy again. Deal with the sameness of the house by playing a game, watching a fun show together, talking about something that makes you happy, sad, mad, or confused, or clean out a drawer, box, closet, or a part of the garage 30 minutes a day.
Spend time. Spend time (in person or on some electronic device) with the persons who you love. Laugh, tell stories, and talk about hope and strength.
We don’t have to juggle alone!
- Proverbs 12:25
- I Peter 5:7
- Philippians 4:6-7
If we can help in any way, email Tony.Rankin@Nashvillefirst.org.