The time has come...

The walrus said, to speak of other things…

We have presently been given the rare opportunity to take time to observe what is happening around us. Things even more contagious than this virus arising: kindness, caring, generosity. At the same time, what is happening to our environment? Our skies and seas are clearing. The Earth is starting to heal, and yes, it demands sacrifice. What are we leaving behind for future generations? Is it any wonder that so many young people are already stressed out? Why are so many people hungry and homeless? Are we so greedy and self-absorbed that we do not care what effect our actions have on others?

What of our personal relationships to family and friends? These, too, may be presently regarded in a different light. Perhaps we may even have the chance to gaze a little more deeply inwardly. In the face of uncertainty, we may also ask ourselves, are we prepared for whatever comes? Have we done everything we need to do, said everything we need to say?

We already know our economy will look differently coming out of this. What survived, and what did not? What lessons must we learn? Do we want to do things differently to ensure a better and brighter future, or will we race backwards to our doom? For if we do not learn the lessons now, there will be a next time, soon, and it will be far worse. We can already see that we must be much more self-sufficient, not only as individuals but also as countries. Let us try to be a little more mindful of things like consumer spending, the foods we eat and where they come from. How much waste we create, and how it is treated. Are things made to last, or made to break down? How much do we recycle, reuse, re-purpose?

It seems as though the last century was one war after another. This century is one of war waged on a microscopic level, as one virus after another rises up. We sit and listen in morbid fascination as the number of cases and deaths rise around the world. This only serves to objectify the problem and hold it at arm’s length, until it hits us personally. God bless those who are putting their own lives at risk to help others. I am grateful every day for food in the stores, recycling pickup, etc. I am grateful for the birds singing and spring flowers blooming. I am grateful for the chance to still connect with family and friends. I am grateful for the house cat who keeps me company and helps me to destress. I am grateful for the people in my life right now who are allowing me to share their journey.

 I have great respect for wealthy philanthropists who give back to the community. When wealth is only a number on paper, it means nothing. We learned this during the stock market crash of the last century. It is only meaningful when it is put to use to help others in need. Do you need to be wealthy to help others? Absolutely not. No matter how little you think you have, there are others who have even less. We do not even have to talk about money. It could be your knowledge, experience, time, your talents, your energy. We all have something we can share to help make things better for other people, our future generations, and our planet.

The time has come: to face the unknown with courage, faith, kindness, selflessness and love.

Sparky