I know it’s been a while since my last blog. As most of you probably know, I have mixed emotions on what’s going on in the world. I have to be honest; I didn’t want to write or talk about it. I had to process this internally. Asking hard questions and fear inevitable outcome, I hid in my mind while all hell broke loose outside.
The source of coronavirus (a family of viruses that cause cold-like symptoms, effecting respiratory system) started in Wuhan, China, around January 24, 2020. This illness isn’t very severe (and kills only small percentage of people), but it’s highly transmissible, that is why it can still be very devastating.
As a mother of 3 kids and having lung sensitivities for most of my life this news hit me like a truck. I was reading news watching chaos unraveling with a heavy heart and hoping and praying that it will be contained fast. I kept thinking that we have technology and resources to stop this pandemic at the core. I thought it wouldn’t get here… I thought we were invincible here… And I was wrong.
My heart snuck to hear how far and fast this virus was spreading. Schools closed, stores and jobs hit with uncertainties, people’s health in jeopardy and future on hold. We are not immune to it, although some think they are healthy enough they will recover, but they can carry to someone who will not. The responsibility of social distance falls on us all.
There in fear I cried out to God, this is moments where my heart and mind feels different. I have hoped no matter what is going on. Although I am human and first response is being afraid and anxious, while supplies going left and right and people panicking and trying to stoke up (for 6-8 month before vaccine is found), making it sound like quarantine is an apocalypse.
And there I see hope in the midst of the storm. I see how awesome (most of the people) are. There always will be rebellion and disobedient cynics but it’s between them and God. I am talking about awesome neighbours, friends, our country leaders, doctors, nurses, firefighters and store owners/workers and delivery guys! And everyone who is still at work doing their part, so our society won’t fall apart completely. Sacrificing for a greater good of humanity. God created us all different and unique, but we have same compassion and same love and same loss. We come together in time of need.
This is an amazing time to utilize our technology. To keep in touch and continue socializing. Another awesome aspect of it: we are at home together. I didn’t realize how busy I was after cancelling all of my events. Although it takes me a while to get used to the noise and no routine days (until I figure it out how to run this house) it’s ok. There’s no right or wrong. I will take time and I will figure out new normal for my family. And I will have grace for myself and others, it’s new for us all.
This is one of my favourite verses in the bible: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Philippians 4:4-8 NIV
https://www.bible.com/111/php.4.4-8.niv
Because I believe only God can give us peace “which transcends all understanding”. But there is my part as well in this verse. While I am praying, I am trusting in His faithfulness, and I filling my heart with gratitude and my mind with positivity. I am constantly thinking of how I can make it better, my home, our life, and how to help people around us. And today (March23/2020) is snowing. My first thought was: “We are going tobogganing!” One day everything will change, everything will get better. I have hope in the midst of the storm.
Love&BLoved
Lena Cebula 