The Gift of Time

This tragic pandemic has taken many lives and left mourners grief-stricken throughout the world. COVID19 has taken its toll on our first responders. Families suffering hardships and the uncertainty is anxiety-provoking. These difficult times are extremely disheartening.

As a mental health professional, I am facilitating Telehealth sessions with first responders, those grieving deaths of loved ones, older adults socially isolated, teachers scrambling to teach online, students attempting to assimilate, couples managing at home together, and parents challenged with endless parental responsibilities — we are all longing to embrace one another, attend family gatherings, weddings, graduations, and other social events.

Many teens are grieving the loss of their senior year, and children are missing their friends. College students are feeling deprived of their classroom learning experience. Professionals are longing to return to their workplace.

Amidst the weight of tragedy and devastation, the weeks of quiet time at home has led me to find some good…here’s the transition I’ve noticed.....

Many individuals seem to be reflecting on the benefits of stepping away, reflecting, and enjoying this gift of time. Not missing the constant pull and embracing a slower pace. Many considering a new career path, pursuing their true passion and reinventing themselves.

Most longing for human connection yet being proactive and connecting in different, “old school” ways. One woman said, ”It was so nice, I spoke to my aunt for twenty minutes on the phone on a Tuesday afternoon.”

Others telling me they’re noticing how much money they’re saving. Some extremely pleased they’ve had time to Spring clean, complete household projects, swap out winter clothes with summer attire. Someone finally wrote the book they’ve longed to write. Many, taking a moment to catch their breath and focus on their own self-care. Most cooking more and enjoying creativity in the kitchen. Parents playing board games with their children, riding bicycles outside, and taking more walks.
So many elated they have free time to achieve their personal goals regarding health and fitness.

I’ve heard many report they love the quiet, peaceful energy outside. I find it reminiscent and nostalgic of the 1970’s visiting my grandparents. Folks truly being fully present with loved ones they’re quarantined with, on phone calls rather than texting or embracing virtual chats.

As difficult as this time is, others have noticed how little they actually require.
One woman said, “I realize I can paint my own nails and love my natural hair color.”
Another said, “I do not need any more clothing, shoes, or purses.”

As a facilitator of women’s retreats, in many ways, this time feels like the world is on a retreat.
In the same way, I’ve encouraged retreat attendees for decades, I want to encourage you to explore the following as this is a time for tremendous introspection......
Really embracing solitude and getting reacquainted with yourself. Truly exploring all that no longer serves you.

Who do you want to become?
What do you want to bring with you and what will you leave behind?
How do you want to be in your relationships?
Which attributes do you want to leave behind and what do you want others to see?
How will you set healthy boundaries and limits with others?
How will you shine?
Has this downtime precipitated a shift in your own life?
Is your mindset different?
How has your perception or perspective changed?
What changes are you contemplating in your own life?
What can you set in motion to obtain the outcomes you desire?
What steps can you implement to enhance your well-being?
What will your transformation look like?

What’s Essential Moving Forward?

Be Well, Be Safe and Be Kind