The world has been experiencing a global pandemic since March of this year. What is called COVID 19 or the Corona Virus, which started in China, has now spread throughout the world  Many changes in our lives we have experienced.  We were instructed to practice social distancing, stay home, business’s were closed, people that could work from home did and are still, sporting events were canceled, schools were closed, we were advised to wear face masks, we couldn’t visit our loved in care centers, church services couldn’t be held, movie theaters, restaurants, gyms and public pools were closed, airplanes stopped flying,  and t0ilet paper became a greatly sought after commodity.

WOW! What has happened in such a short time. The stock market went to an all time low since 1917. The thriving economy was put to almost a screeching halt.  We receive daily reports on number of new deaths and newly diagnosed. States have just barely been starting to open again.

Many lives have been lost as a result of the virus. This has been very discouraging. Many more have recovered. This has been very encouraging.

Despite the challenges this has created in our lives there have been many blessings. I reached out to friends to contribute things that they had found to be positive examples in their lives during this pandemic. Here are some of the responses that I received;

Eve said it makes you realize how grateful we should be with just the small stuff.

Danielle, a newlywed, was scheduled to go to another state to do her graduate studies and due to the pandemic she was able to stay home with her husband. Newlyweds certainly don’t need to be separated in they can help it!

Kristen said that she has enjoyed her college age boys being home where they have been able to enjoy family dinners and nighttime discussions.  I agree with that. Before you know it kids are gone and the time you had to share together are few and far between.

Bobby responded that he had taken the opportunity to sit down with all his grandkids and he was able to tell them about the US Constitution. They were able to learn and discuss the laws and why each were established. Any time we can spend with our grandkids is definitely time well spent.

Chelsea said she enjoyed spending more time with her kiddos!

Karla said that working from home reminded her how much she loved being home and spending time with her husband, so she decided to retire! Happy retirement Karla!

Debra found that communication with family increased, saying that they were able to pray for family members who had obstacles and they were able to have family home evenings via messenger.

Dave said that he was positive he had gained weight! I think many people have Dave!

Tricia responded saying that they had definitely spent more time as a family with everyone home together playing games, watching movies or just hanging out in the back yard. This was a good alternative to spending time at a friends house, running errands, going out to eat, etc.

Tracy said they have enjoyed their meals and talks with many laughs!!

Terri enjoyed spending time with her grandson and making better food choices.

Jennifer, an essential employee at a busy grocery store, said how scary it’s been to go but she has learned to protect herself and her family now and in the future.

Julie responded with these beautiful words, “In a world that seemed so bleak and hostile, my faith in humanity has been renewed. To be able to serve and witness such acts of love, compassion and heroism has brought me such incredible joy and gratitude for the acts of Christ-like love we are surrounded by. I AM GRATEFUL”

Nancy said “I’ve been working on my health. I’ve lost close to 30 pounds. I want to live a healthier life for my kiddos.and teach them to love their bodies! I’ve enjoyed all the extra time I’ve had with them. Watching my baby grow into a toddler has been the best!ow grateful I for these dear friends and them taking the time to respond. These are great examples of finding the positive despite challenging times.”

Allison responded with “My husband and I have been married less than two years and we’ve never had such great quality time until now. We’ve been able to play board games, card games, learn instruments, and change up our home TOGETHER. Since I worked from home and he only went in two times a week- it was so nice to be able to talk whenever we wanted to.
Also, our dog’s personality has blossomed. She’s been happier and more social with us than ever. The three of us would have never gotten to bond like this had we not been stuck in our home for over 70+ days lol”

Jackie said “We are thankful for the things that we have just taken for granted.”

Helaine reports that “In the last 2 and a half months, we have played more board games together and laughed more than we have in a long time.”

Mark said “Working from home makes your realize how much you miss the company of your co-workers, how you take for granted they are there everyday to chat with, work on issues with face to face”

Matt, a co-worker to Mark, said “you don’t realize how much your coworkers make up the majority of your daily socialization.”

My good friend Rose contributed this “So many positive things during this time. We try not to give much time to the negative/disadvantages most of the time. Mealtimes have been awesome to gather 2-3 times a day. Our chores have shifted to fit needs of everyone. Home to 5 adults & 1 child.

A former co-worker,Stephanie, had to report some sad news. She said “We had a great friend and neighbor pass away with COVID 19😢. I have been working in the office the entire time all this started but am taking extra precautions when I do go out in public because of him.