It’s a trying time for everyone. So it might seem difficult to think of something to be grateful for.
We’re all reeling from the impact of a virus that was unknown a few months ago. Today, even a 5-year child can say the word coronavirus.
At first, it seemed as if the pandemic would bypass Africa. We prayed that it would, even as we stood with those who were afflicted. It didn’t. And we’re now struggling to keep up with measures that are slowly grinding life as we know it to a halt.
Coronavirus is making rounds and has become a part of our lives…at least for now…like an unwelcome visitor. We’re even creating jokes about it and using it as an excuse!
For instance, I coughed during a coaching session earlier this week. There was silence, loud silence.
Then my client said softly, “Caroline, siku hizi watu hawakohoikohoi mbele ya umati.” (Trans. “Caroline, nowadays people don’t cough cough in public”).
She then shared an experience of struggling to hold in a sneeze when dining out last week. We laughed and the laughter broke through and helped us find a solution that got her business unstuck.
Luckily, that was a virtual coaching session. I wonder how things would have been had it been a physical session.
The next day, another client astounded me by using coronavirus as an excuse for not completing her homework. Her excuse was, “Coronavirus coronad me!”
I laughed so hard that I was almost unable to continue with the coaching session. Then I told her that I’m borrowing her excuse for a post. Hope it’s made you laugh too.
In case you’re wondering, no she didn’t get sick. However, the pandemic’s potential impact on her business worried her. Our laughter helped diffuse this fear and worry. We got cracking and mapped out a new roadmap for her business.
In the midst of all the coronavirus-related craziness, there’s still something we can use to bring a bit of levity into our lives. There’s also something to be grateful for.
For today, let’s count our blessings and be grateful. For in the words of Gautama Buddha:
Let us rise up and be thankful,
For if we didn’t learn a lot at least we learned a little,
And if we didn’t learn a little, at least we didn’t get sick,
And if we got sick, at least we didn’t die;
So, let us all be thankful.
Back to you…
There may not be much you can do about your situation, but you can find something to be grateful for.
- Create a gratitude list that you update each evening.
- Go to sleep listing the things you’re grateful for that day.
- Start your day by reciting what you’re grateful for that morning.
- Keep your mind as positive as you can by constantly reminding yourself of what you’re grateful for in that moment.
On top of this, follow the safety guidelines shared by your government to protect yourself and your loved ones as much as you can. And…don’t let coronavirus corona you!
For now…what you are grateful for today? Let’s hear from you in the Comments.
(Photo by Freshh Connection on Unsplash)
