During this uncertain, stressful and painful time, what are we doing to prepare ourselves for when it’s over? I know that we have no idea what this pandemic will leave in its wake and how we will be individually and collectively in the world. But no matter what happens I am certain that things will change. For some of us the change will be drastic and for others change will be minimal but change is coming.
We are all being agitated like dirty clothes in a washing machine. Clothes cannot get truly clean unless they go through the agitation cycle of the washer. Similarly, we cannot change unless we go through the agitation cycle of life. If you have ever observed the water coming out of the washer during the rinse, you can see how dirty the water is. The dirty water lets us know how dirty our clothes were before they went into the machine. Agitation of the washing machine reveals what’s inside of the clothes.
The Coronavirus Pandemic is agitating all of us and is revealing what’s inside of us individually and collectively.
An April 6, 2020 New York Times article said: “Movement restrictions aimed to stop the spread of the coronavirus may be making violence in homes more frequent, more severe and more dangerous.” The report goes on to say: “now, with families in lockdown worldwide, hotlines are lighting up with abuse reports….”
I challenge each of us to use this time as a mirror to intentionally take a look at who we really are and see ourselves truthfully and honestly.
Take time to observe our actions and listen to how we talk to each other during this lockdown. This crisis will reveal the thoughts you hold deep about your family members, friends and loved ones. How are you “different” now than you were before the pandemic? What is coming out of you that you didn’t intend to come out? What thoughts about people around you are emerging to the forefront of your mind that you’ve suppressed or believed you no longer thought? Whatever it is it will be revealed during this crisis.
Please understand that agitation (conflict) between people are as much a part of building meaningful and long-lasting relationships as is harmony. It is what we do during times of conflict that define the relationship and who we are in it. Sometimes during a time of agitation, we must learn to back up, be quiet and breath. In other words, stop and listen to what the other person is saying and let go of where we stand on an issue to actively listen.
What is coming out of us during this agitating time? When we see it, we must confess that it is who we are. If who we are is painful to ourselves and/or to others around us then take this time to make a change.
-Peace and blessings,
J Trice
Founder and CEO
Public Policy Project
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