I’m guessing I’m not the only one approaching the next few months with a sense of eagerness and relief, and yet caution.
Much has changed in our world. Much has changed for us personally.
It’s time to begin the process of reintegrating into life in our communities, step by step reaching beyond the safety of our homes to reconnect and re-establish our presence.
How do we want to take those steps?
Do we want to go back to exactly the way it was, or is there a new path forward?
I’m persuaded that we cannot ever go back to what was, nor should we want to. The gracious way to move forward is to accept the changes, acknowledge the gifts that this pandemic has produced, and pledge to make the generous future a better place for all.
Despite the many challenges, there’s opportunities waiting to be explored. Necessity has spawned innovation that we could not have imagined a couple years ago.
Some of the changes may feel awkward at first, but incorporating them into your lifestyle can bring more efficiency and freedom.
Who would have thought one could tap a few buttons on a plastic screen smaller than your hand, then walk straight into a Starbucks and pick up your waiting drink? Or have it show up at your door within the hour?
Inspite of imposed lockdowns we have maintained our relationships with friends, family and colleagues through video platforms via computers or handheld devices. In many cases, we have expanded our circle of acquaintances by joining new groups. We have explored fresh hobbies and learned valuable information from amazing and knowledgeable people.
All this is ours to take into this new world.
Even INSPIRED Magazine has evolved. We no longer have a central business office. All staff work from the comfort of their own homes and communicate as needed through email and texts, supported by cloud-based databases and software. We transitioned to 4-day work weeks, which has felt amazingly freeing.
Every decade has seen its share of innovation, but it’s breathtaking to see what has been accomplished in the first 2 years of this one. Technology and communication is accelerating at phenomenal rates.
In the history of our planet, we have never been so connected with one another to the point where we can be present almost anywhere on the face of the earth within seconds.
Let’s pray our humanity and compassion for one another keeps pace with our technological advancements and that we never take for granted again the pleasure and profundity of a handshake, a hug or a “how are you?” These will always be the foundations of civility.
May the month of March awaken us with renewed promise. May we revel in the opportunities that life brings to us and may we cherish every moment we have with loved ones and acquaintances.
Springtime blessings to all.
After shuttering our popular 55+ Lifestyle Show for 2021, we’re eager to bring our community together again. We will be hosting our show in Victoria on April 12th from 9am to 3pm at Pearkes Recreation Centre. All government protocols will be observed that are still in effect in April.
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