Quarantine Challenge for the privileged

Lets be intentional about the time we are spending isolated and indoors. While many of us are rightfully worried, going stir crazy, and itching to resume life as we know it, I can’t help to realize that we have been granted time to do all of the things you don’t always have time for. We are being forced to be still! For those of us who are in positions of privilege (not dealing with a sick loved ones, mental health issues that worsen due to isolation, missed wages or worried about where our next meal will come from, how our bills will be paid, etc) there is not a more perfect time to do those things you typically put off for tomorrow. Tomorrow is today. Our tomorrow has officially arrived. We aren’t rushing off to work or rushing off to do one errand or the next. Some suggestions (Take what applies and leave what doesn’t) -Decluttering (fridge, closets, garage, drawers, car, email etc) -Organizing/ Re-organizing -Deep Cleaning/Purging -Reading -Having those conversations that have been put off (Apologizing when needed) -Self reflection -(if applicable) Getting closer to God, the ancestors or whatever higher power you believe in. -Praying and/or Meditating -Home workouts or walks/runs around the block -Taking a look at your finances and coming up with a budget -Setting new goals and assessing former ones -Creative expressions -Artists of all kinds-Lets Create! -For those who are group isolating or who live with others. Spend intentional time with your spouse and loved ones. I recognize it may be difficult not to be sick of one another and is undoubtedly challenging for parents who have to work while kids are still at home, especially those with multiples! Heart goes out to those doing this with little to no help from others. That said, whenever possible, instead of looking at this as something that’s happening TO us, those of us who are safe and who are fortunate enough to still be working from home, have an opportunity to look at it as something that’s happening FOR us. Take advantage of the additional bonding time. For those of us who live alone. FaceTime (or other forms of video chat), phone calls, text messages and the like are here for us. Rather than spend all your extra time on social media which can be depleting, especially now, Stay connected to those who FUEL you. For those who are able to, Let’s also think about how we can reach out and assist those who are missing wages. Maybe it’s one small act of kindness. It will go a long way! I would also like to take the time to acknowledge those who are considered “essential” employees and still have to physically report to work. I ask those who are home to join me in keeping those people (and their families who are likely worried) in your thoughts and lifting them up in prayer (if you are a believer). I urge you to reach out to those you know who are at heightened risk every day by going out to provide services that have been deemed essential. Offer them encouragement and support that resonates with them. Asks how you can be there for them during this time. In closing, I would like all of us who are privileged at home (whether working or comfortable due to savings/ assistance or a working partner) to consider: When this time has passed, will you be satisfied and dare I ask proud of how you spent your time?

*Inspired by a conversation had this morning with one of my favorite people. Note: I never suggest anything I am not personally taking on.