Some very simple thoughts about how to stay connected and compassionate for the next little while.
If you are able, spend some time walking on the trails or out in nature somewhere. Listen for the beautiful sounds around you. The sound of the wind, or waves on the shore, or birds. If you see icicles, take a moment to watch them dripping and melting, the sound of each drop as it meets the earth. Notice other people. Let yourself feel surrounded by creation. Speak to anyone you see, help them feel connected.
Love your neighbour.
If you’re not able to do this, sit on the front steps or look out the window. It may look like there are not nearly as many people around, but in fact you are completely surrounded by other people in their homes, everyone protecting each other by trying to flatten the infection curve.
Let yourself feel surrounded, and protected. Let your thoughts and prayers connect you with everyone in every house or apartment nearby, because you are connected to each and every one of them. In your mind, share with God how much you hope each one of them is safe, how much you hope they are not suffering mentally or physically from all of this, and send them your prayerful compassion.
Love your neighbour.
Find a way to reach out to anyone you think might be feeling lonely. Phone calls, texts and emails, face time, Skype … but phone calls in particular are really nice because it’s good to hear someone’s voice.
Love your neighbour.
If you are able, and are aware of anyone who has lost work or is experiencing financial stress, and there’s something you can do to help… if you can help by cooking them some food, or picking some things up you know they need, or anything else you can do… please do.
Love your neighbor.
There are many workplaces, businesses and corporations that are choosing to continue to pay their employees, though closed. If you are aware of any, call or write them a message to let them know you are aware of their compassionate business ethics. Tell them what a blessing they are.
Love your neighbour.
If you know of workplaces, businesses and corporations who are not paying employees after shutting down workplaces, make contact and ask them why. Minimum wage earners are facing especially difficult times because so many do not work for companies who put people first instead of profit.
If you are aware of businesses that do this, write them, call them, challenge their ethics. This is a time when employers need to do everything they can for their people. Also be aware that many small businesses may be facing losing what they have worked many years to build. Reach out to any you know of, let them know you are aware. Support local businesses, if you are able.
Love your neighbour.
Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, if you see people working in places of high risk, taking care of vulnerable people, people continuing to staff grocery stores, or any job that helps our communities continue to function, or involves taking care of others… notice them, help if you are able, tell them how awesome they are.
Love your neighbour.
Although times like these can be so terrible, worrisome and fearful, it is also a chance to be who we are truly meant to be. We are people of compassion. We are connected. We are never truly alone. We are meant to be together, and if there are things that make it impossible… find new ways. People are amazing, beautiful, and capable of imagining all kinds of ways to stay connected, and take care of one another.
Be what you already are. A loving, connected, prayerful, compassionate human being. Love your neighbour.