Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, you may have felt that the events we are experiencing could be described as “apocalyptic.” Even if it’s a bit of an exaggeration, the world as we know it has undoubtedly changed.
But do we have to characterize these changes as negative? Could there be an opportunity within the pandemic’s impact?
In ancient Greece, the concept of “apocalypse” actually meant “uncovering.” During times of drastic change and disruption, the truth could be uncovered. We could discover the wounds that needed to heal and the problems we had been ignoring.
Asking these questions isn’t easy. In fact, it can be downright painful. But the process is worth it. Here’s how to begin discovering what this pandemic can teach us, and why we may have misunderstood the true meaning of “apocalypse.”
What Needs Your Attention?
Your regular schedule has probably been thrown off track during this pandemic. With more time to think, you may have been able to direct your attention to places it does not usually go.
Perhaps you’ve reflected on your career and what you want out of your life. Maybe you’ve wondered how you could improve your relationships with your family and friends. Or you’ve considered how you would like your everyday life to look once things return to normal.
This moment is your chance to think deeply about these areas in life that you may have neglected before.
How Does Your Community Need You?
You may have also begun thinking about how the pandemic’s impact has exposed your community's specific needs. Do families have enough to eat? Are small businesses struggling to stay afloat? How are the local hospitals handling the increase in patients?
When we identify the needs present within our communities, we can find ways to serve our neighbors.
How Do You Need to Change?
This transition is the hard part — thinking about you could personally change. It is challenging to admit how we have fallen short in the past. Plus, it isn't easy to own up to how we could have stepped up and didn't. You can take a few moments to reflect in your journal. Be honest with yourself!
What Is Your Call to Action?
Sometimes, we need to hear a genuine call to action to feel inspired to change. For you, this may be a request for help from someone you know. It could be an article in the newspaper about a critical issue in your community. Maybe it’s a statement from a friend or family member that pushes you to act. Your call to action will be personal, so listen for the moment.
What Are You Willing to Do?
Finally, it’s time to think about what you’re willing to do to make things right. The pandemic's impact can only be an opportunity if we make it one. If we fail to act, we will not see the positive impact that we desire.
You have more power than you think. And once you begin to act on the issues you’ve identified around you, you’ll notice that you feel truly fulfilled.
For me, this moment has inspired me to offer mindfulness meditation classes. My first two, 5-week classes were held in May and July. In lieu of tuition, I asked people to make donations locally or to organizations that they felt called upon to support. The results were so heartwarming. Local donations to Ridgefield’s Food Pantry; national organizations like Innocence Project and the Audobon Society, among many others. I’ll be offering more classes in the fall, including a drop-in meditation class to continue practicing together. Do contact me if you are interested in joining. These course offerings will be online.
Trying to heal our communities is challenging, but give it some time, and you’ll be grateful that you’re getting involved and paving the way for a brighter future.
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This pandemic has presented challenges for all of us, and if you’re struggling to see the light at the end of the tunnel, you’re not alone. You may want to explore mindfulness-based therapy for support during this difficult time. Reach out to me today to discuss your options for scheduling your first appointment.