Summary

The article discusses the silver linings of lockdown, emphasizing the opportunity for personal growth, reflection, and the rediscovery of simple joys like walking and reconnecting with nature.

Abstract

In the midst of a global pandemic and economic uncertainty, the author finds solace and opportunity in the enforced downtime due to lockdown measures. Reflecting on the past week since losing her job, she acknowledges the fear and uncertainty but chooses to focus on the positive aspects of this period. The article highlights the joy of walking, the importance of gratitude, and the gift of time to engage in activities often postponed for "one day." It suggests that this period offers a chance to rest, relax, reconnect with loved ones, pursue creative endeavors, and even start new businesses. The author observes a renewed sense of community and connection as people venture outdoors, and she encourages readers to embrace this time to clear their minds, set boundaries, and remember the importance of enjoying life.

Opinions

The author views the current lockdown as an opportunity to reflect and engage in activities that were previously neglected due to a busy lifestyle.
She believes that practicing gratitude has been transformative in her life, particularly during challenging times.
The author sees the lockdown as a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities, which she feels can lead to a more fulfilling life.
She notes a shift in community dynamics, with people being more friendly and connected, despite the circumstances.
The author emphasizes the importance of using this time to clear physical and mental spaces, which can lead to personal freedom and growth.
She is optimistic about the future, using the time to create and develop a new business, and encourages others to do the same.
The article conveys a strong message about embracing the present moment and not waiting for "one day" to pursue personal goals and happiness.

In These Times, Have We Been Given the Gift of Time?

Today is day 5 since my state went into lock down.

One week since the company I worked for closed (temporarily) due to the virus. These are scary times, times we have not seen in our lifetime.

I should be in fear, not only of the virus, but of the future and how what is happening is effecting the economy — and us all. And while I am taking what is happening seriously, I am also going to a deeper level.

I can’t control what is happening…I can only control how I react to it.

With the gloom of what we are facing, are gloomy days outside. Here and there the sun has appeared and when it does, I take advantage and go for a walk.

I love to walk — have for years!

Walking not only is my form of exercise, but it soothes my soul. As I walk, I plug in my headphones to Pandora and escape to another time. Sometimes it a song that sparks a memory and I’m 7… 10…15 years old again. Other times it’s a vision of the future, that I look to bring into reality.

Walking brings me joy, feeds my mind, helps me to connect to something bigger than myself.

I walk year around, choosing beautiful days, and I walk alone. Now, I always like to walk by myself, but what I mean is no one else is out there walking. Occasional dog walkers and moms with strollers, but that’s it.

Until now — as the world has kind of stopped for the moment at least for some of us.

For many our busy lives are less so, I find that others are taking some time to — enjoy the time.

Among the gloom and doom out there, I found a silver lining. I must admit, that is not uncommon for me. I have been through a lot, especially these last five years, and finding gratitude has been life changing as well as life saving for me.

The Power of Gratitude

I used to live in a place of negativity, lack and fear. I turned my attitude around when I incorporated gratitude…

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Right now, many of us have been given the gift of time. We are all so busy nowadays, aren’t we?!

What are the things you have been putting off until one day when you have more time?

One day is now — time to rest, relax, reconnect with those that you have’t had a chance to. What about that book you’ve been meaning to get to? Starting a craft you’ve been wanting to? Letting go of some toxic relationships. Setting boundaries. Maybe it’s clearing a closet, basement, garage?

Or even….clearing your mind. Stop all the negative chatter and just be in the moment. Stop beating yourself up and start embracing who you are.

When you start clearing your spaces, you start to free yourself.

And speaking of freedom, many of us now have been given this as well. Free to get outside in nature, walk our neighborhoods.

For some time, I have been telling my 20 something son to get outside. He always seems to be indoors missing the beauty of nature. And now, with his gym closed, he is out walking and jogging around the beautiful man made lake by his home…

….and so are many others. I’m seeing families walking, partners holding hands. People are smiling, we pass each other and say “Hello”. Or smile.

In this time of fear, I am feeling the love and it feels great. No longer are people avoiding me as I walk, but acknowledging me.

What a gift… and one I want to continue to unwrap as life goes back to normal and I find myself busy once again.

Take — NO! — MAKE time to enjoy life. Note to self, do not forget how good it feels to play…

Part of playing for me is creating…and these days I am creating my NEW business. I’ve been given some time to do this now. I hold a day job that I love, but I am not doing what I love. Now I have some time…yet another sign for me to keep moving forward.

How I Learned How To Go From Tears To Peace

I’m in an interesting space today. Without getting into all the details, I wanted to share how I have learned how to…

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Will you join me? I would love to hear from you! How are you spending your ‘me time’?

Until next time ~

Be Well,