8 Things To Take Away From The Pandemic

There is light at the end of the tunnel.

So many things have changed these past few months, and I am still processing it all. We are all aware of the pandemic that is happening right now, and I acknowledge that it is changing people's lives in many ways. I've been thinking about its impact on me and how I can shift all these to a positive attitude. May this entry give you a new perspective on the obstacles we are currently facing, and may it rekindle your hope.

Here are eight things I have personally taken away from this crisis:

1. Be thankful to be alive

Despite everything that is going on, I am thankful that I am alive and healthy. Be thankful that you have another day ahead of you. Make the best out of this situation because time is something you will never get back.

2. God can take away everything from you in a snap

This is a big one! God took everything we've been putting our time, effort, and money in a blink of an eye. One day, we find ourselves always working, shopping, planning for a trip, worrying about fame, money or school, impressing others, doing all crazy things, etc. I think it is safe to say that we are living in a highly materialistic society, and it gives a false idea that the more you have, the better. Sometimes we get caught up in our hectic life and lose sight of God. This is a reminder that we should not be holding onto the identity that the world has given us but of God. The only thing He did not take away from us is our identity as the child of God.

3. God is the author of your life

This is no surprise from God because He was the one who planned it all from the very beginning. If He planned this, then shouldn't we have the same trust that He will bring us out of here? Think of it this way - During this time, God is working on you. He is using this time to challenge your faith so you can grow deeper in your relationship with Him. He is strengthening and equipping you with His words, wisdom, and love so you can bless others. Allow Him to work on you. There's always good that will come out of every bad situation because God is the writer of your life. For example, I have this burning urge to share my thoughts with you during this time because I want you to see how God has opened my eyes to see Him in every situation - good or bad. I hope this will give you peace of mind and confidence.

4. Life is taken for granted

In my sociology class, my professor always says in her lecture, "world taken for granted ."What we do in our everyday life are patterns that have become the norm. We don't even think about some of the things we do because we have done it so much throughout our lives. It came to the point that we take it for granted because it's always available and easy to access. For example, the food we eat, the house we get to live in, the people we talk to, the outside world, and the lifestyle we live by. We begin to realize all these because it has been taken away from us.

5. Embrace every moment with your loved ones

By now, we are probably sick of our family BUT use this time to reconnect with them. Show your appreciation, care for them, do something new with them, and get to know them even more. Ultimately, you'll realize how fun their company is even when they get on your nerves. This is the perfect time to spend quality time with them since we all have excuses for our tight schedules.

6. Find balance with time

The way I think about it is I will never get this time back, and I don't want to waste it by not being productive. This has changed my attitude toward how I spend and utilize my day. One might think that time is unlimited - "I have all the time in the world ."This will set their attitude throughout their day, and they may begin to put things aside. Another person might think that time is limited and we all have certain things to accomplish daily. Prioritize your responsibility by making a to-do list. With that being said, it's also essential to have a day dedicated to resting and rejuvenating. Balance your time. Note that some days are better than others, and that is okay. Humans carry many emotions and moods, so we will not always feel excited about life.

7. Encourage one another, and check on your friends

We are human beings who are born to socialize. For now, the ability to communicate in real life has been taken away from us, which may trigger many emotions. Yes, we sometimes feel lonely, but we get back up and continue with our lives. Some may not be able to cope with it in the right way. We are equipped with technology that allows us to come together and socialize uniquely. It may be through text, facetime, zoom, or whatever app it is. Check on them and ask how they are doing. Share positive messages, and it may brighten their day.

8. Point each other to Jesus

During this time, it is easy to be afraid and lose the direction of your life. We should not be controlled by fear; instead, let's hang on to God's word. Let's remind one another of His promises and pray for one another. Let's also not forget to show humility and kindness to one another.

Stay safe and healthy, friend. Keep your faith strong and alive. Better days are coming, and we will rejoice again and be glad.