photo by Kelly Sikkema
Today we are writing during the emerging stages of yet another wave of Covid in our Gabriola community and in our homes. We have been advised to refrain from indoor gatherings, limit social interactions, stay away from places of worship, gyms, music concerts and other events. Essentially, we are asked to stay close to home, avoid non-essential travel and maintain caution whenever it is necessary for us to be out and about. Perhaps under these conditions we can strive to move from isolation to insulation.
We all know that just before the sunrise there is deep darkness. For many of us we try to remain in our beds as the sun find its way into daytime. We just wait, mostly because we believe and feel confident that the sun will eventually rise and shed some light on our waking existence. Sometimes we don’t want to wait. We rise early from our beds and begin to do to try to get through our day. We want to make the light shine. How can we do this, both alone and in community, here on Gabriola during these next few weeks?
As you might be aware, several of our GES programmes for the coming month of January have been postponed until we are able to gather safely together again. What and who can we bring with us as we isolate/insulate in our homes, and what can we do to find meaning and gratitude in times such as these? We know that both are already there within us. So how do we find them?
There are many avenues open to each/all of us to pursue. Books, music, movies and TV shows, churches/places of worship even if only online, supporting community members at large, connecting with our agencies and services on Gabriola to help others in ways in which they can’t help themselves, these are all helpful activities in living through trying times. Intentionally embracing those around us, whether it’s person to person, video chat, email communication, telephone calls or walking outside together, these are positive ways of connecting in times such as these.
All methods of communication that we have available to us now can be utilized to help us feel connected and cared for. Even a kind word can brighten someone’s day, and it’s okay to take that chance because it
never hurts to simply share a kind word.
Audrey Hepburn says: “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” It’s that simple. Perhaps we can plant a garden on our windowsills to remember that growth happens with light, water and love. And soon spring will provide new life and rebirth.
Max Ehrmann, writes in Desiderata (1927): “And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore, be at peace with God whatever you conceive him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.”
“The inspiration you seek is already within you. Be silent and listen.” Rumi