Like most living today, I never would have ever imagined I would be witness to a global pandemic that is wreaking tremendous havoc in the world. However, the harsh realities of the coronavirus confronts me daily. While, I am not one of our bravest first responders or essential workers, I have struggled with life in New Jersey these early months of 2020 – a year that kicked off with so much excitement for me from anticipated college graduations, to celebrating births of nephews and nieces, travelling to Europe and more. Add to that unfortunately the city I work in and love the most− New York City, is being hit the hardest with the most confirmed coronavirus cases in the United States, followed by the state I live in.
However, as a mother of five, I had to be strong so I carried on and did my best to make everything seem okay from my remote working to their “distance learning”. But I was not okay. It wasn’t until I had an encounter (via Zoom of course) with some girlfriends that I had an epiphany that re-channeled my perspective.
First, I increased my spiritual lens focusing more on my faith and becoming closer to God. While I believe in science, my faith in God has helped me become more at peace with the pandemic and renewed my hope that everything will be well again and soon. I believe by Easter.*
Second, I intentionally “Carpe Diem” aka “Seize the Day”. With so many losing their lives to this horrible disease, I’ve realized that it is important to live to the full “today” for we don’t know what tomorrow may bring. So I spend so much more “quality” time with my kids and husband, playing games, taking walks, zooming to dance workouts with my work colleagues, face timing with my siblings, watching old flicks with the family, baking with my daughter and the list goes on….
Lastly, I have been seeking out and focusing on the positive. With so much sad news on TV and social media, I’m choosing to find the beautiful in the world today because it does exist. So I try to notice everything from beautiful blooming flowers in the neighborhood to helping those doing great work in the community to combat COVID-19, to celebrating virtually with others having landmark events and more.
My advice for women dealing with anxiety over this pandemic, is to take time out for yourself to take stock of the situation, if possible connect via zoom or face time with people you trust and respect and share how you feel. You may walk away with some gems that can give you a new outlook to get through this crazy period in life victoriously.
Virtual hugs!
Signed by,
A Queen