In this time of fear and uncertainty, I want to express my gratitude. I’m grateful that I live in a safe country, in a comfortable home, with plenty of food in my fridge and pantry. I’m grateful that my family and I are healthy and that we have access to good doctors and hospitals. There are people all over the world, and right here in the United States without many of these benefits. Right now, we are all in fear of this pandemic, and fear spreads faster and wider than any virus. Fear will cause anxiety, which will cause stress and that will cause you harm in the end. All we can do is be vigilant and do what experts say, keep your distance from others. Stay home and be grateful.

During this time, we get to enjoy the company of our families. We need to be present and calm. Our uncertainty and fear overflows to our children, for them and for ourselves we need to focus on the good and practice gratitude. Take advantage of this time and teach your children to meditate, practice mindfulness, get organized, learn to cook, sketch, or just read a book or two. Take a walk as a family, watch movies together, take an online course and have virtual discussions with friends and family.

We are lucky enough to have the ability to see and communicate with one another. It can be reassuring to be together virtually. Recently I saw a birthday video that was created for a close friend of mine. It was messages from her loved ones about what an amazingly positive source of love she is to them. How wonderful that they were able to extend their love and celebrate her birthday virtually.

Don’t listen to people who believe it’s the end of the world. Choose to see the positive in your situation. Do whatever you can to feel in control of the situation, like frequent hand-washing. Boost your immune system with healthy habits and activities, such as regular exercise. Stock up on food just in case the authorities order you to stay indoors for a while. That’s all you can do. You can choose to see the glass half empty or half full. Your choice. Be safe and grateful. Thank you for reading my perspective.