In times like these, you gotta have faith

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 18/01/2021 (871 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Though we seem to be surrounded by inconvenience, struggles and even tragedy, we must not lose sight of the positive relationships we have established, the good deeds we observe daily, and the beauty apparent all around us.  

Mother Nature has certainly done her part. Our mild weather has set the stage for biking, hiking, skiing, skating, snowshoeing and more.  Almost everyone is wearing a mask, because almost everyone has a grandparent, parent, spouse, sibling or child they want to protect.

However, not everyone is able to get out and about. Many are feeling the walls close in, and the most they can do is walk around the backyard or chill out on the balcony.  

Isolation atop of restrictions is stressful, and goes against our sense of community and belonging.

Belonging is derived from associations with family, friends, colleagues, teammates, roommates and social groups. Belonging is necessary for the human psyche to stave off loneliness, anxiety and depression.

If you know someone in isolation, please don’t ignore them. Stay connected by phone, Facebook, text or email, and make a point of waving as you walk or drive past. I’ve never seen so many  neighbours on our street in 30 years and it’s delightful.

In 2020-21 we’ve had to stretch our imaginations. What was crazy in 2019 may now be the solution that keeps your business afloat.  I am continually impressed by those who dig deep and invent, as we Canadians are wont to do.

We’ve seen celebration parades, online yoga and comedy shows, delivery of coffee and Slurpees (Who would have thunk it?), Zoom choirs, teachers live-streaming storytime to their students. Our imaginations are boundless.

Finally, I have some 2021 resolutions to share.  

I have decided we will continue to bask in the glow of our Christmas tree past Ukrainian New Year (Jan. 14) because it elevates my endorphins and reduces the cortisol. I will remember to breathe deeply and often. I will continue to laugh, just because. I will pray for a speedy return to our normal way of life, and for a sense of peace worldwide.

When we put the welfare of others before our own, even just a little, then humanity begins to move forward.  Be proud of yourselves and smile.
 
Wanda Prychitko is a community correspondent for St. James-Assiniboia. Contact wprychitko@yahoo.ca