Fearfully and Wonderfully Made ll

By Dr Cassandra L. Bailey

As the "Stay at Home" public health mandate is gradually lifted in states across the country, there are political actions requiring our attention which must retain our focus. Unless otherwise notified, the presidential election is in November. In the midst of sudden life transformations influenced by the coronavirus, it is crucial that we let our vote be our voice. Now more than ever, completing the census is imperative. Have we forgotten the bewilderment felt about redistricting as an outcome of the census results a decade ago? In addition to exercising our politically astute muscles, here are four recommendations to help us maneuver through this phase of life and emerge better post COVID-19.

1. Find creative ways to stay connected with friends and family. Spend time talking to children about family history.

2. Identify what skills can be learned or improved to be competitive in a changing job market.

3. Take advantage of this time to read a book written by a favorite author, or discover a new

literary subject.

4. Take this time to make new beginnings, particularly if "the way things were" did not foster growth.

We are descendants of survivors. Our resilience is second nature. United we stand; divided we fall. There is nothing we cannot overcome, particularly if we choose to live interdependently. The content of our character is transparent during times of adversity. Let us not allow personal struggles keep us from bestowing love upon others. For, when the veil is lifted, how will we wish to be seen? We can accomplish all things if we can see the vision, believe, and have faith. There is nothing keeping us from persevering during times of uncertainty except the last two characters in the word "can't". A skeptic might ask why. Because we are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). Lifting We Climb, Dr. Cassandra L. Bailey

Dr. Bailey is a higher education administrator, Founder and Coordinator of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, and Executive Director of Ignited Light. Her motto is "Lifting as We Climb," as she believes we are all interdependent and can achieve more by helping one another move forward, rather than walking alone. Dr. Bailey is the daughter of former Monroe Resident Gloria Conley-Bailey.