Dear Grandkids,
I’ve been trying to decide what my 100th post should be – seems like a significant number. Finally decided to go with the obvious since we have NEVER experienced anything like what we are experiencing now in our country. So I am going to give you some of my reflections on this coronavirus pandemic that is presently re-designing what the culture of the United States will look like.
1) Even though I am an introvert (I am energized by my alone time) I am finding that I miss being around people. My three primary places to find community are church, Chick-fil-A, and family – all of these are compromised right now.
2) I tend to be a glass half full kind of guy, meaning that I have a very optimistic outlook about things. Regarding Covid-19, this means I think everyone else will get the virus before I do. I am learning that I need to be less of a risk-taker in terms of my social distancing practices.
3) The stock market has lost one third of it’s value over the last few weeks. As I approach my retirement years you would think this might give me cause to worry. Interestingly, I have no concerns about this. I haven’t even looked at my accounts. As I read on a placard this past summer, “Worry is just a waste of imagination.” This encourages me as it affirms my trust in a God who is sovereign and has everything under control.
4) I miss sports. Especially this time of year. Specifically I am missing the NCAA tournament, the start of baseball season, and golf. I have come to love the word “postponed” – as in “The Masters has been postponed, not cancelled!”
5) This pandemic has reminded me just how creative people are. Lots of stuff is popping up on social media everyday that is humorous, inspiring, and outrageous. People have lots more time on their hands and it is spurring creativity. Here’s one that I thought was really good.
We don’t know how long this is going to last. We do know that the world is changing right before our very eyes in short order. We don’t know what the long term ramifications are going to be. We do know that there will be a new normal once this is all over. We don’t know what the Lord is doing as He allows this pandemic to run it’s course. We do know that He is in control…
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
(Isaiah 55:8-9)
Never forget that you are very loved!
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