Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

By Dr. Cassandra L. Bailey

The coronavirus has turned the world upside down. In fact, its global impact might have resulted in this being the first time that individuals can truly identify with what people residing in other parts of the world are feeling. Thanks to the media and our local, state, and national political figures, we are well informed of the alarming impact that COVID-19 has had on the United States and beyond. New York has held the number one position in the highest percentages of COVID-19 cases and deaths with New Jersey, Minnesota, and California gaining momentum.

If the coronavirus itself is not enough to send individuals into a panic, the efforts to slow the spread of the virus have resulted in a catastrophic disruption of life for most, if not all, Americans. Without delving into the financial, social, educational, residential, psychological, and political details resulting from the onslaught of the coronavirus and adherence to the "Safer at Home" Public Health Order, it is likely that life pre-COVID-19 will never be the same. At best, society will find itself adapting to the "new normal" willingly or kicking and screaming. Nonetheless, there are choices during times of peril.

Rather than lament the negative reality of the current state of the nation, why not focus on the rose sprouting through concrete pavement? We can choose to focus on the detrimental effects of this emotionally shocking crisis, or we can choose to cleanse our lenses and see the beauty emerging. While small and large companies are struggling, many business owners are using their knowledge and skills to keep a revenue stream flowing, although gravely reduced, while helping communities. Unknowing, aspiring entrepreneurs have identified a need and found a way to supply the demand. When masks became scarcely available for purchase, sewing machines were dusted off and patterns were cut from an array of fabric to fill the void. In March, the reduction of cars traveling the streets coupled with much needed rain resulted in Los Angeles having the cleanest air in the country, with the caveat being picturesque blue skies. Prior to being instructed to do so, how often have we longed for the opportunity to take a moment to relax at home? When was the last time our entire schedule went from being completely full to having no plans at all without feeling slightly guilty for having time for ourselves? How often have we vowed to do something around the house, or to forge our personal goals only to report that we have been too busy to accomplish the task? How many people will return to work or school in better shape than they were pre-pandemic because they are exercising more and eating home cooked meals rather than ordering out?

Maya Angelou eloquently stated, "Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space at the same time.

Invite one to stay." While the emotional shock of this crisis can keep us focused on the detrimental results that have surfaced, why not change the paradigm and consider the beauty that has transcended? Rather than ask why me, ask why not me. Use this time to have a mad love affair with yourself. Strengthen relationships, beginning with yourself. Make lasting memories with family and friends.

Hone your skills for the next job that is waiting for you. Open the book that you have been putting off reading. Use this opportunity to make a lifestyle change. It has been said, "if you do something everyday for three weeks, it will become a habit." What new behaviors have you developed?