What is Normal?

How are you, dear?

It’s been so long since we’ve spoken.

I know you say you are fine…but how are you, really?

Our world has been upside down for so long now that the days are slipping into weeks and the weeks have turned into months and the months have become seasons and the four walls of our homes seem to be closing in. I can’t remember how long the leftovers have been in my fridge and there is another wad of dirty clothes in the hamper. I swear I did the laundry yesterday. Or, was it last week?

After all this time of virtual human contact, I’ve started talking to myself in the mirror almost as much as I talk to the dogs. And some days all I’m doing is holding my breath, waiting for life to get back to normal.

But wait.

What is normal?

When I witness communities finding ways to connect and live joyfully in a time when fear runs rampant, I am encouraged by the resilience of the human spirit. Last weekend—on Hallows Eve—I volunteered at our church “drive through” where the staff greeted anyone who showed up with warm, heartfelt conversation and bags of treats. One staff member who was quarantining in anticipation of a visit with family later in the month, wore a T-Rex ‘hazmat’ suit and greeted every car with dancing and laughter.

I’ll admit, I mostly watched in awe as the staff called out to every driver by name, asking, “How are you…really?” After only a few minutes of meaningful connection, every single car full of people left that parking lot knowing that they were loved and cared for.

So today I challenge you to ask someone, “How are you…really?” and take the time to listen to what they have to say. You can be the light in their day, or just maybe, they will be the one shining back at you.

 

Sending peace to you, dear one.

~Kristin