There is a lot of fear swirling around during these uncertain times. The pandemic of the Coronavirus has everyone anxious and panicked. It is during times like this when we need to be a little kinder, more compassionate and patient.
We can allow stressful moments like this to divide us or bring us closer together. It is time to surround people with love and peace. This is how we will get through this moment together and allow it to bring us closer as a society.
Offer a kind word. Sometimes all it takes is a few kind and loving words to make someone feel less stressed. Initiate conversations that are loving and peaceful to bring calmness.
Listen to those that are fearful and soothe and comfort them, especially children. Children aren’t mature enough to understand the whole situation of the Coronavirus. There are a lot of children who are feeling the stress and fear from their parents and this is automatically being transmitted to them. School closings are creating anxiety. Talk to the children in your life and explain to them what is going on and reassure them that everything is going to be ok. This is a great reinforcing teaching moment for washing hands. Make it fun. Wash your hands together in warm soapy water and sing the Happy Birthday Song. That is equivalent to about 20 seconds, the recommended time you should wash your hands for.
Share stories of overcoming struggles. People are concerned about their livelihoods and the possibility of not being able to work for a while. Tell them of any time that you encountered financial uncertainty and then give them hope that they will get through this period and it will soon be over. Ask them to be creative and think of ways to generate income aside from their regular jobs.
Offer hope. Without hope, we give in to fear and uncertainty. Hope is what will get us through this moment and any moment that is uncomfortable.
Do not fear, but be brave. Do not fight, but unite. Do not hate, but love. Do not stress, but be at peace.
