Finding Positivity During COVID-19

I was sitting in class on Wednesday, March 11, and we were talking about COVID. It was 8:30 a.m. and our professor was answering questions about what would happen in the case of campus closure. I remember him saying that according to his sources, if that were to happen it would not be for a few months. That same day, at around 4 p.m., I received an email saying campus was closed for the foreseeable future and we were moving to online learning. I remember thinking “what just happened?”

Fast forward five months and here we are.

So many things have changed over the last five months. Jobs, school, socializing, medical care, emotions, stability – even time! All of this and more has been impacted by COVID-19. While it can be overwhelming at times, the military experience and journey teaches us resiliency. Part of resiliency is looking for the good in situations, as hard as it can be at times.

On a day when I was feeling particularly overwhelmed and emotionally depleted, I asked myself what good things, if any, have come from my COVID-19 experience? I sat down and made a list. As I went through it, I did start to feel better. Of course, the emotional ups and downs are not going to stop anytime soon, but when I look at my list, it gives me a moment of peace. Some of the things on my list include spending more time with my husband, having time to organize and clean out closets, etc., embracing fun and funky masks that reflect my personality. The list goes on and there are some other more serious things on the list. I add to it as needed.

Perhaps making your own list or making one as a family can be helpful for you too. In sharing this post and this list, it is not my intention to diminish anyone else’s experience or circumstances. Each of us is on our own journey with this. It is my hope that in trying to find some good in these times that we will be able to inspire and uplift each other.