“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”
Maya Angelou
So we are just about a week into the world discovering just how big of a threat Covid-19 across the globe and our lives have been upended with the concept of social distancing. For me, that meant the uncertainty and cancellation of at least three planned trips (Atlanta, Tobago, and Europe) and potentially 3 more before we make it through the worst of the spreading of this virus. I must admit that while I thought I would be upset, within the first few days I was enjoying my alone time.
Then came the closures: schools, restaurants, bars, movie theaters, clothing stores, my dental office, hair salons (oh my)…you name it and the Governor of Kentucky has rightfully said, “shut down”. Some say it’s an overreaction, I say its being responsible and proactive. Side note: if only we had a President that can navigate this pandemic as eloquently and masterfully as Governor Andy Beshear has (and thankfully we gave our prior Governor his pink slip last November). It’s so refreshing to hear from a responsive and thoughtful politician.
Anyhoo – so this week I went into the office through today but will work from home the rest of the week. Then we will go on a rotating remote working schedule. It’s been a long time since I’ve gotten to come home from work and not rush off to meetings (or travel). I had forgotten just how much of an introvert that I am and plan to use this next couple of months (or longer) to reflect, grow intellectually by reading, maybe binge watch a few shows, contribute more to this blog, research travel ideas for when we come out of this pandemic, and nurture my relationship with God (after all, He is the one that has forced the world to slow down!).
What do you plan to do with your down time over the next couple of months?
I too am an introvert who truly enjoys alone time. I love the idea of being home alone with just my thoughts, books, and a few good series to binge watch. I thrive at knowing that my days or time aren’t tied to the many obligations that I somehow manage to commit to. I long for the days of wearing my PJs and not taking my bonnet off for a full day. The days I can take a nice long hot bath and not the daily routine shower. God definitely has a way of slowing us down and forcing us to appreciate solitude, good health, access to food that we can cook (we waste too much money eating out anyway. I know I do), and toilet paper stocked at stores. I saw a meme that said forcing us to quarantine may be what is needed to bring families closer together and revive the traditional family dinners where everyone in the house prepares and cooks meals together. Although I believe this too shall pass, we need to savor this slower pace that COVID-19 is causing. Good can be found in almost any situation.
I agree with everything thing you wrote! We definitely need to appreciate the “now” more than we have become accustomed to.