Let’s face it, 2020 isn’t quite shaping up the way we planned. In fact for many it has been quite disruptive and looks like it will continue to be so for quite a while. Pete and I are in the fortunate position that we were aiming for self sufficiency anyway, so we are not as impacted as some of us, although we are missing socialising and visits with family. This is likely to be the new norm, at least for a while, and who knows what long term the new normal will be.

Now is the time, while we have quiet (well relative quiet, depending on who is in our households) and some spare time on our hands at home, to stop and listen and reflect. Who are we now, and who do we want to be, now and during and after the COVID19 crisis? Are we happy as we are, do we want to make some changes? Perhaps we want to learn a new skill, catch up on our reading, become creative, or just learn some more stuff.

We have been given this time, by Mother Nature to take the time to listen to our intuition, to reflect and dream, to create and yes to connect with others in a different way. We have all this time we didn’t have before, why not spend some of it in quiet reflection, tuning in to our own voice. Let’s listen to our soul, rather than the noise of the world or the voices of others. Deep down inside, we know what we want, let no one else tell us we are wrong, let no one else define us. This isn’t selfish or wacky or un-necessary, it’s a part of evolution and of moving from where we were to where we could be. No matter who we are or what our situation is. Each of us are worthy individuals, not defined by our jobs or careers but by how we live.

The Kindness Pandemic we are seeing confirms that as people we are on the whole generous, kind and caring people who want the best for others. We recognise we can’t be there for our family so we can be there for others, and hope that others are there for those we hold near and dear to us.

As we come to terms with who we are and who we want to be, remember that most of us are dealing with the same challenges. Reach out and ask “Are you okay?” But also, then step back, if you don’t get a response. Some people aren’t ready to share yet. When they are ready, they will reach out. Be patient with others but also with ourselves. None of us have all the answers, this is all new. Share with others – thoughts, ideas and re-purpose material possessions. Offer support. Most importantly, take the time to get to know you – you are worth it.