Be Thankful Amidst the Chaos

Things could always be worse, remember that.

The world is in chaos. People are losing their lives by the thousands each day. Families, communities, cities and even countries are being ripped apart at the seams. How long will we be subjected to this turmoil? Nobody knows, but there is still hope, reasons to smile and be grateful.

I count myself as one of the lucky ones.

Besides the disruption to my ‘regular’ daily routines, I’ve suffered no major effects of this global pandemic, nothing that can’t be dealt with or overcome.

And, as I write this, don’t think that I’m making light of those in the thick of it, those facing hardship, tragedy and despair.

Or think that I’m oblivious to those who have been putting their lives on the line each and every day to help others, putting themselves and their families at risk just to care for the unlucky victims of this worldwide atrocity.

But, if you’re reading this then I’m betting you too would consider yourself as one of the lucky ones, much like me.

Of course, this doesn’t apply to everyone and if you have been directly affected by the recent global events then my heart goes out to you.

These are unprecedented times.

Which is why we need to be thankful and appreciate all that we have at the moment. Especially each other.

The inspiration for this piece came to me today as I watched my three-year-old son sit on his little miniature couch, eating his dinner and watching Bananas in Pyjamas, an Australian children's program and one of his favourites.

I watched as he immersed himself in the storyline, giggled at the antics of the characters and enjoyed his meal.

Something that would be considered a ‘normal’ Saturday evening for many, myself included, suddenly filled me with a deep sense of appreciation and emotion.

Here I am, with a roof over my head, food in the fridge and a happy, healthy family while thousands around the world are suffering.

And although we are all focused on COVID-19 at the moment, beforehand, there were still thousands, millions suffering every day from a multitude of diseases, illnesses and poverty-stricken situations — to name but a few.

I truly believe that when we eventually overcome this pandemic that people will have a new worldview on life.

That there will be a newfound respect for nurses and doctors. For those who work in supermarkets and seemingly ‘lower-class’ professions.

That there will be a new way in which people approach their work-life balance.

And that we will all realize how vulnerable we really are.

Be thankful amidst the chaos.

Count your blessings.

Though times may seem hard, know that in most cases, it could always be worse.

If you are reading this and have your loved ones around you or know that they are safe then be thankful.

Times ahead may be hard, but together we can overcome anything.

Tough times come and go but tough people carry on.

Stay positive, stay safe and stay strong. Fuck COVID-19!