Snippets begins . . .in the middle of a Pandemic

It's such an odd time in our history.  Threatened by a pandemic, the world is topsy-turvy.  The news is full of chaos of medical proportions and politics are particularly biting.  Yet, in the middle of all the yuck, all the chaos, all the sadness, grief, and distance. . . .there is such beauty.  Spring has sprung in spite of the darkness.  Winter will not -- cannot-- last forever. . . . We look forward to days when we can embrace each other again.  We are excited to hope for celebrations, for laughter and happiness -- to gather again with people we love.  In the meantime, I am so encouraged to see people reaching out to each other virtually in so many beautiful ways.  The world is replete with Facetime chats, Tweets, Facebook encounters, Google hangout, Zoom classes, webinars, and so much more.  In Italy, folks sing to one another across balconies.  While so much is on hold, love and kindness and compassion and humanity are certainly NOT on hold.  While so many things have been postponed or cancelled, care for our neighbors and grace and mercy and music have increased.  While we must keep our distance from so many, we have retreated into our homes and held close loved ones.  We have spent quality time singing, reading, playing games, planting flowers and so much more.  Challenge and crisis either bring out our worst or our best, and I see both in the world around me.  Yes, there are hoarders and people who selfishly serve their own best interests rather than the good of everyone, but moreso, there are people sacrificing to heal others, and neighbors helping neighbors and people stepping up to the plate to help when help is so needed.  Profits are taking a backseat to well-being, and I have to wonder -- what are we learning?  Will we hold on to this feeling when the world isn't so topsy-turvy?  Will we remember to sing and hold each other tight and hug each other longer and linger over sunsets and delight over fireflies?  Will we make the most of every moment and say I love you often because life is uncertain?  I certainly hope so.

---