Cope, Care, and Create During a Different Time

So grateful and thankful you are here in this place of community, not only for single parents, but also for all those across the world who are wondering and questioning. First, will you relax with me by listening to this beautiful piece of music as you continue to read:

Dreams Of Awakening

This week, let’s just say, feels different. Somewhat surreal, as we learn to adapt to a new way of life. In the United States, we have been watching China, Italy, and others from a distance. Over time we have seen the progression on a global map. Slowly, making its way to the U.S. where I reside, and now it is here. The virus, oh so smart and damaging, yet merging the world together as one.  Do you feel the unity of humanity?

R e l a x . . .

We Are in This Together

That is what the cashier said to me at the tiny market in our rural town, “We are in this together,” as our eyes met, both of us holding back tears. Together, but also on our own unique journey. Would you agree? Further, what will you create during your own unique journey?

Survival Mode of a Single Parent

For me, this current situation brings back memories of survival mode. This was the way of life I knew so well living as a single parent for eight years. A time when I had so many odds against me. The United States had been hit with a big recession midway through my single parenting days. Just when I thought it couldn’t get any harder, it did. Hence, forcing me to work night shift as a Registered Nurse to make a living for myself and two small children. Every evening I would kiss them good night, tucking them in their beds, under the care of Grandma and Grandpa. The front door shutting behind me always had a deafening sound as I made my way into the darkness of night to care for the sick. Deafening because I wanted to be home with them as they slept soundly in their pajamas.

Fortunately, I persevered for five long months until at last, another door miraculously appeared. This portal opened up to hope and bright light. How thankful I was for the entrance to new life. Through hope and faith, I was no longer in a dark place. So grateful.

B r e a t h e . . .

Lifeline Revisited

Now, the world is dealing with so many unknowns on a daily basis. I, probably like most, am worried about finances and health. So, I relied on my lifeline and prayed to the heavens last night asking for financial security and safety. This morning, my prayer was answered. In my mail box there was a substantial reimbursement check that would cover bills this month. I cried simply because I was heard. Remember, when I talked about the lifeline?  Here is the link to the post if you missed it. What is your lifeline during all of this? Do you have one?

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The Gifts of Life

Today, I focus on what is important to me:

Hearing the soccer ball bounce in the mud room as my child walks outside to play soccer.

The flowers will be blooming soon in New England, as shown by the tiny green stem making its way through the soil. And, eventually, a yellow daffodil will greet me.

Witnessing entrepreneurs ingeniously remaining positive to keep their businesses afloat. 

Thankful for those who work in the grocery stores making sure we can buy food.

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A wave of my hand acknowledging our propane service company filling our tank so we can cook our meals on the stove.

Indebted to all of our healthcare providers who allow our hospitals to operate on a 24/7 basis. There are more than just doctors and nurses working on the front lines to care for the sick. Think of all of the others that comprise the healthcare team.

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Having my college child come to visit me today where we took a walk and talked, with a six-foot distance between us. And, then, I hear the words, “Mom, I do have faith.”

Reconnections with long lost friends after years have passed by.

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What Are You Creating?

These are the poignant moments that come out of uncertainty. Where one has to pause, breathe, and reflect on the incredible gift of life. I don’t like what has happened just like anyone else. Although, I know the virus will not rob me of the beauty in the world. I will create my own experience to continue to find the good in humanity, look for random acts of kindness, and be astonished by the magnificence of nature.

I will wait patiently for the new door. One that will eventually open up and provide a tapestry of all the creations made during this time. We are given an opportunity to look inward and create. What are you creating from this experience?

p e a c e

Our World

And so, for now, everything has changed. This isn’t the first time I have woken up and realized my life was drastically different.  It is just that this time, the whole world is different rather than just my own small space known as home. And, as before, I will look for the new door. One that offers us hope and light.

In faith,

A special thank you to Music of Wisdom for allowing me to include their music in this post.

Official Website
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Here is one of my favorites:

Photography Credits

Photo by Daniel von Appen on Unsplash – Art easel
Photo by Jordi Fontana on Unsplash – Solo stone on beach
Photo by pixpoetry on Unsplash - Man reflecting on beach 
Photo by Zack Minor on Unsplash – Girl standing on beach
Photo by Karl Fredrickson on Unsplash – Sunrise on ocean
Photo by Anastasia Taioglou on Unsplash – Sunrise in Greece (waves)
Photo by Xavier Mouton Photographie on Unsplash – Boy playing 
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash – Girl with flower dress on beach
Photo by Stefan Spassov on Unsplash – Older boy sitting on beach
Photo by Ilnur Kalimullin on Unsplash – Artist painting
Photo by Jen Theodore on Unsplash -  Globe

Musical Credits

Music of Wisdom