An old Irish proverb tells us: "It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.” Being a people-person, myself, the first few months of lockdown made me just a little crazy. So, like many others, I joined Zoom meetings with friends to stay in touch. At the beginning of the lockdown, my husband’s family met every night on Zoom. But, we all know that Zoom just isn’t the same as face-to-face time.
Blessings at Home
That said, when I’m too focused on the restrictions of this pandemic, I lose sight of its unusual blessings. After years of anticipating my kids "leaving the nest,” for example, I’ve had the privilege of having my boys home for the past five months. Other than the regular "date nights" I enjoy with my husband, we all eat dinner together as a family, every night. We share deeply during our evening meal, and this has given me better insights about my family and fostered closer, more satisfying relationships between us.
As restrictions were lifted here in Michigan, I discovered other ways to break through the isolation. Our local Humane Society re-opened its doors to volunteers because the cats and dogs were starved for attention. Being an animal-lover, I eagerly signed up to help—donning my mask and maintaining social distances, of course. And the adoption rate has been incredible! Many families and individuals in need are finding connections through these furry-companions. It’s a privilege to contribute to such an easily-overlooked but critical mission.
My “live” encounters with human friends have helped, too. Now that restaurants are open, outdoor lunches with friends have been food for my soul. Jewish services on Zoom on Saturday mornings, along with COVID-safe celebrations have provided wonderful opportunities to express my gratitude for the strange, new world we are living in.
The lockdown has opened up creative paths for me, as well. I’ve learned more from my new online-knitting-groups than I ever would have on my own. And an abundance of time has allowed me to finish twelve paintings and some exciting experimentations with textures and techniques. I am especially thankful for the online art-supply stores that are still in business!
The Shelter of Each Other
Social connections with family, friends, organizations, pastimes, and work are lifesavers. But sometimes, we also need the help of professionals. One of my kids was feeling a lot of anger at not being able to visit with friends on his college campus, so he took a break in the garage to just "hammer stuff.” Political discord, unequal access to healthcare for the sick, and the scourge of unemployment just exacerbated his feelings that the world was changing forever.
My son is hardly alone in feeling overwhelmed. Depression and anxiety are rampant. And connecting with friends or family over Zoom or a socially distanced lunch isn’t possible for everyone. But, no matter what your circumstances are, real connection, empathy, and help are only a phone call away. Telehealth group and individual support is available to anyone with a phone. You can get help right now, in fact—just click here: https://www.mentalhealth.gov/get-help/immediate-help.
The world is changing, and the way you feel right now will change, too. So, if you are thinking of hurting yourself, I urge you to call 1-800-273-8255. Don’t wait. Do it now.
For mental health referrals in your area, call 1-877-726-4727. And if you need support for domestic violence, call 1-800-799-7233. If you or your children are in immediate danger, call 911. You deserve a life without fear.
Wherever you are, and whatever you’re experiencing, my prayer is for your safety and health. Just make sure you keep reaching out to others—they won’t know you need them if you don’t tell them!