This is kind of a crazy time right now in the world. Who knew the entire world would shut down from a virus? People are shut inside, going out only for exercise or essentials, in some cases being required to wear a mask. But this isn’t to go over the good and the bad of this pandemic.
It’s to focus on what has happened. Things are slowing down – people are getting back to a slower pace of life which is the way things used to be before there was all this technology readily available at our fingertips. Granted we can still access the technology – for work or for pleasure but people are indulging more and more in the simple things of life.
Think of your morning routine – you probably were usually up early, getting kids to school, busy, busy and you’re rushing out the door before you had your morning cup of coffee. Now with places and businesses shut down, you might be at home in the morning – making your own cup of coffee in the morning, savoring the taste over breakfast with your family. Less rushed, less hurried.
Some simple things that I’ve been savoring lately
a good hot drink in the morning – I usually favor hot chocolate or tea over coffee
lighting a candle – a candle is an instant mood boost. The lighting of the candle, the spark of the flame, the crackle of the wick – it brings us back to simpler times when there wasn’t electricity but brings light through the ages. Soy based candles are my favorite – and the smell of essential oil based scents are amazing. Check out Dirt Road Candle Co. if you want a really good smelling candle. They are a small business located in the heartland of Iowa and have amazing candles.
writing letters -the written word is something simple that is becoming forgotten. The art of putting pen or pencil to paper and letting friends and loved ones know that they are cared for is so much more better getting in the mail than regular junk mail or bills.
Relationships – I’ve been much more mindful of the relationships that I have within my family and also friends, keeping in contact and just keeping the relationships flourishing during this crazy time. Family zoom meetings and meetings with friends is important as we’re all struggling with keeping six feet apart.
Puzzles – Puzzles bring me back to being a teenager and spending time with my Great Grandmother. There is something satisfying about putting a puzzle together. It makes you think and makes a beautiful gift or backdrop later. It is also really fun to do with other people.
Sharing things – I belong to a women’s bible study at my church and we meet weekly over Zoom. This is one of the best times in my week, we share our ups and downs of the week – we share scripture and learn more about Jesus and God together, pray together for each other and its just a good thing in my life.
Prayer – I’ve been praying more lately with what’s been going on. It’s one of those things that is such a blessing to my day – it helps me slow down and clear my head. My husband and I try to pray the Rosary and its very helpful in making me feel at peace.
Those are just a few things that are simple that I am savoring at this time. Is there things in your life that seem small, but make a huge impact in this time of quarantine?
