When I was part of the “work” world for all those years, it always seemed to go smoother if I chose to be flexible…cooperative…accommodating. Those are adjectives that describe people who will make the decision to “go with the flow” for the betterment of all concerned. It isn’t always what we desire deep inside of ourselves, but when it is asked of us, we chose to comply to help out the major situation.
So many things are changing right now, in this stage of life that we all find ourselves in. Maybe it will continue to change or evolve into something more permanent, or who knows, maybe it will look totally different than anything we see right now. I usually try to be resilient and amenable, but I do have a stubborn streak and enjoy my own way…just ask my husband!
As I have ventured out into the world more in the last couple weeks, it seems that those who are the happiest are those who are adaptable! Being willing to “bend” in circumstances beyond our control, brings a peace around us that blesses others in our presence. I want to be able to shift gears easily, and to help wherever possible. Even though I don’t totally understand or appreciate all that is being asked of me (us), I must be strong enough on the inside to adapt on the outside. I can’t be rigid if I want to be part of the solution and not the problem.
Some of the new “rules” that are being put into place sometimes look and feel silly to many of us. If we just accept what is asked of us in a business place or going to an appointment, without complaining or being difficult, our day (and others too) will flow more smoothly. Those who are trying to do their job are only doing what is asked of them by the guidelines set in place by the powers that be. Many of them are very tired of the requirements of the last months, and our kindness will give them an added sense of peace to their day.
There are moments of humor, which lighten our day. My husband, Dan, had to have a tooth removed by a specialty doctor’s office in Iowa last week. After wearing the required mask into the building and then into the x-ray room, the woman attending to him asked for his mask and THREW it into a child’s seat on the floor! It was apparent that she was “done” with all of this protocol, but still had to comply in order to continue her job.
As I took my granddaughter to an outside pool yesterday, she didn’t understand where the slide had gone, or why the basket of toys had disappeared from the kiddie section where she loves to play. It just wasn’t the fun atmosphere she has grown accustomed to. I also found out I cannot bring other grandchildren this summer, as they don’t reside in Murray County. Changes. Hard to accept, and no, we don’t like them. But not the end of the world. Just the end…at least for right now…of things as we knew them.
Newness can frighten us. We can feel threatened by all the changes going on around us. Imagining what MAY happen or that something will never be what we deem “normal” again, can be terrifying. Our traditions feel best to us, and give us a sense of security. When we feel it slipping away, so does our peace.
Newness in life is inherent. Sometimes if we are going to expand and grow, we must change too. However, we need to use our common sense to evaluate change. If we feel there is something wrong or evil in it, then rejecting it is the right thing to do. We must speak up and be bold for things to take a different path. We must try to help find a solution for a better way.
One of the most cruel parts of this time of “lockdown” to me is the decision to keep loved ones away from those who are suffering or left to end their lives alone, either in hospitals or institutions where no one is allowed to visit. I am praying for that to change, for the good of all concerned. I understand not having a whole room of visitors, but not one close relative? I don’t see how it can be justified.
I was encouraged this week when a friend had surgery in Rochester, and their spouse was allowed to be in the hospital with them. The time was shortened, but they could be there for support and comfort. I only hope this will become more accepted practice everywhere, no matter what virus we are fighting.
“……clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive, as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3: 12-13
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