Crisis Leads to Transformation

Everyone likes to hear good news specially during this difficult times. It may be tough to stay positive while all we hear is bad news cycling 24/7. However, life is not all gloom. The crisis has brought with it a few surprisingly positive side effects. Here are a few good things that may be the result of the current health crisis.

- Despite the fact that most people are staying indoors and away from all social life. There has been an increase in altruism. We find that more people are volunteering to shop for the elderly and the vulnerable. People are demonstrating kindness and generosity. The so-called “random acts of kindness” are not so random anymore. 

- At a time of social distancing, spending more time with our family members also gives us the opportunity to get to know them better, be more present and spend quality time with them.

- The epidemic made us more aware of our vulnerabilities and that could be a good thing. Overwhelmed by uncetainty. Recognizing we are vulnerable may make us more humble, it can help us feel more confortable to engage in a more authentic level of connection with others. 

- We appreciate our health service providers even more because we realize how much we depend on them, they’re our everyday heroes and so are supermarket workers, delivery drivers and all essential workers around the globe.

- Closer relationships. At a time when we are not allowed to be physically socializing, it’s amazing how we make an effort to stay in touch with our friends and extended family members. We’re making time for that weekly video-chat to keep up with the happenings in everyone’s life.

- Healthier habits. People are rethinking their eating and workout habits amid the crisis. Because we are spending the majority of our time at home we have more time to cook healthy meals and many of us even have time for a workout, something that perhaps we didn’t have time for prior to the lockdown.

- Reduced carbon emissions. Another big impact that we can already see today is the air pollution clearing up. With fewer cars on the road, less planes in the sky, the air is clearing up. India and China are one of the most polluted places in the world and for the first time in years you can now see some of the mountains in India. It was also reported that the waterways in Venice are clearing up as well. Earth is starting to heal.

Of course, none of this suggest even remotely that all the fear and suffering, all the lives that were lost have been worth it for the Earth to heal. The value of human life is worth beyond measure. However, God cares for the Earth and everything in it, after all, he created it all. 

Life’s crisis tend to bring the worst and the best in us and perhaps this is just reminder that caring for people and caring for the environment go hand in hand. Hopefully these things help us restore hope and see things from a different perspective. We have not been abandoned, God continues to care for his people and his world. There is still so much good in the world, so many people bringing hope and willing to share it. 

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. - Philippians 4:8

Fostering Spiritual Resilience in Turbulent Times

The health crisis has undoubtedly tested our collective resolve, pushing us to confront the fragility of life and the uncertainty of the future. Yet, in the midst of turmoil, many have discovered a deeper sense of spiritual resilience. This ability to persevere and find strength in the face of adversity is not merely a product of human grit, but also a reflection of the transformative power of faith. As the Psalmist reminds us, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea." (Psalm 46:1-2)

For those seeking to cultivate spiritual resilience, prayer can serve as a vital lifeline. By establishing a regular prayer practice, individuals can develop a greater sense of inner peace, hope, and trust in God's sovereignty. This might involve setting aside dedicated time for prayer, engaging in contemplative activities like meditation or journaling, or simply taking a few moments each day to breathe, reflect, and connect with a higher power. As we seek to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and confidence, prayer can help us tap into the boundless love, wisdom, and guidance that sustains us.

Ultimately, the journey toward spiritual resilience is a highly personal and subjective one, influenced by our unique experiences, values, and spiritual traditions. While some may find solace in traditional forms of worship or community support, others may prefer to explore more individualized expressions of faith. Whatever the path, the key is to remain open, honest, and compassionate – toward ourselves, others, and the divine. By embracing this posture of humility and trust, we can not only weather life's storms, but also emerge stronger, wiser, and more radiant, reflecting the beauty and light of the divine.