A few years back I moved to another state to be close to my family, but I remember how isolated I felt before then with no family near by. That is why my mind keeps going to the seniors, shut ins, and people alone during these trying times of Covid 19.
Our first responsibility is to take care of our own basic needs so that we do not become a burden on others, but there is always room for being generous. You can help and give even if you are staying home or concerned about money. Here are a some ideas:
Be a Connector: Reach out to people who may be alone, afraid, or discouraged, as well as the people you love. You can:
- Make a phone call or video chat
- Write letters
- Use social media, apps, Zoom, or texting
- Check in on your neighbors
Be a Giver: There are many needs in times like these and giving is good for the soul. You may want to:
- Donate to an organization
- Buy gift certificates from a local business to use later
- Send meaningful small gifts or cards to brighten people’s days
- Shop local and support small business instead of big retailers
- Give blood
- Make face masks to donate
- Put out extra supplies you have or other fun things for a free curb alert
- Buy groceries or supplies for someone who shouldn’t be going themselves
Be a Doer: Many people need support with different things, especially if they are high risk or have kids. You might want to:
- Grocery shop or pick up prescriptions
- Mow someone’s lawn
- Offer video help with home schooling
- Teach a skill, class or support people via Zoom
- Be on the constant lookout for ways to be of service
Be a Light: In addition to physical needs it is important to support ourselves and others in staying positive. Some ideas for doing this include:
- Put signs with positive messages in your window, yard or with chalk on the sidewalk
- Share only positive or proven things in social media
- Provide ideas and solutions
- Don’t engage with negative people or share their messages
- Create a game for kids. In our town, people are putting colored Easter egg pictures in their windows so moms can take their kids for a drive by egg hunt.
- Listen to and support someone who is feeling scared or down
- Create and share your own positive messages
- Smile – it increases positive feelings in both you and the people around you
Who do you want to be through this crisis? Do you want to focus on fear and what can’t be done or do you want to be a shining light for others?
I already know what your answer is and encourage you to set an intention for how you want to show up and start taking steps to make it happen.
You can be the light. You already are the light. We all are. Just imagine what could happen if we all showed up that way. It would be amazing no matter what is going on around us.
Times like these can be challenging. They can also be an opportunity to push the reset button and create something new. Working with a professional coach can support you in feeling better and bringing your dreams to life. If you would like to learn more, you can contact me here.
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