Jimbo's Jots

Our nation is in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic (Duh!). The phrase that will be remembered from this is “social distancing”. Introverts are like, “I’ve been waiting for this my whole life!” Extroverts are singing, “All by myself! Don’t wanna be . . . all by myself!”

As I have had (distant) conversations with people over the last week, I hear both sides of the personalities say the same thing, “I sure do miss having relationships!” I hear the sadness in their voice. And folks, it’s a moment of grief.

Through this global crisis, there is grief all over. Certainly, there are those grieving loved ones who have died. There is grief over the loss or reduction of a job. And there is the loss of the connection. Let me clarify – we miss the physicality of connection. That is what we grieve.

We miss seeing people, the handshakes, the hugs, the sounds of laughter with others. Students miss the connection with teachers and classmates. Teachers miss students and contact with other teachers. Employers and employees have been made to disconnect because of employment changes during this. Churches, for the first time in a long time, are mainly house churches worshiping via a computer.

So, here are some things to think about as your grieving the disconnections:

• Reach out to loved ones – phone lines are still operational. Hearing someone’s voice will bring a cheer to your day and theirs too. Make a list of someone you can call each day. Especially, phone someone who lives by themselves.
• Acknowledge what you can control – “What is this?” you may ask. You can control your emotions and your activity. Be content to manage what you can manage.
• Explore your own creativity – look at different ways to express your grief. Maybe you can try drawing, journaling, or creative writing.
• Change your scenery – as the weather is warming up, go outside when you can. Take a walk around the block, sit on your deck or patio, or better yet, in your driveway and greet others as they walk by.
• Do something with the people you are with – I have seen families that have been working on puzzles, playing games together, and trying new recipes.
• Remember, as we are physically apart, we are still part of a global family of God. He is still watching over His family taking care of His children. “For the eyes of the Lord search back and forth across the whole earth, looking for people whose hearts are perfect toward him, so that he can show his great power in helping them. ” (2 Chronicles 16:9, The Living Bible)

So as we all work through this global pandemic and social distancing, we can still reach out and be Jesus to others – just do something.

Be blessed and be a blessing!