JULY 30, 2020
As humans, we are all in this together as our world is going through the crisis of the Covid-19 virus. The media has identified it and most of them want you to be scared. They constantly remind us, “People are Dying.” Yes, this pandemic is real and it just might kill any one of us. SO, what are you going to do about it? Stick your head in the sand and hope it goes away? We don’t have a vaccine yet and even when we get one, 25% of the population won’t even take it. Being in the “Risk” business for the last 49 years, I have learned that there are risks in life just by stepping out of our homes. Some of us may be more susceptible than others in getting this virus but the numbers say it is not fatal to the majority of us. What is YOUR attitude and how are you dealing with this pandemic? Be safe but don’t overreact. It isn’t the end of the world and it may just be that wake-up call you have been looking for in life.
I understand that people are dying but 3 million people die in the U.S. every year. All of us have lost family members and loved ones or we certainly will someday. Loss is a part of living and we all must deal with it. (The “Circle of Life”) Some may get more years than others so it is up to each of us to live our lives with courage rather than in fear. Uncertainty leads to fear so choose wisely how you deal with this pandemic. As we all know, this virus impacts the immune system. One of the best things you can do to strengthen your immune system is to laugh and smile. Having a good attitude about life will also help you outlive other risk factors that may impact your longevity. “I know death but I also know life” and so I choose LIFE. I choose to bring a smile to people and share encouragement about the good things in life rather than dwelling on the negative things life will throw at us.
If you are looking for the negative things in life, you don’t have to look too far. Your eyes will either find them right away or your mind will create a fantasy that feels real. I hope you can find ways to deal with the negative feelings in your life because it will kill you faster than any virus. I have said before, I am NOT a lot of things. First, I am no writer but hopefully for those reading these remarks, you might recognize the more positive things you have going for you in your life. (My job is to remind you how good you really have it in life.) Each one of you are special and I know you have something you are good at. Try being more loving to yourself and then go practice it on those you love and that love you. Secondly, I am no doctor or scientist who knows how viruses work. But I know how our mindset, attitude and faith can affect our health, happiness, stress levels, and actions. This opportunity is open to anyone willing to accept it.
To get through these unprecedented times, we need to be positive. (Thank you God for making this my #1 strength on the Gallup Strength finders). We also need to be rational and smart about embracing this challenge in moving forward together by lifting each other up. Every crisis and challenge always presents opportunities so here are some you might consider:
- Connect more with your family and friends: Be more loving and open with those you love and that love you. Building deep relationships is critical to our survival.
- Take time to prioritize what is truly important: Your health is your wealth. Stay healthy in your body, mind, spirit and heart.
- Grow and Improve yourself: The best investment anyone can make is in yourself. Read, listen to inspiring podcasts, grow your mind and grow your faith. God is in charge anyway.
- Enhance your personal health: Exercise, get plenty of sleep, reduce stress, meditate, journal, eat more fruits and vegetables. You know the drill.
- Learn more about yourself: Working toward understanding WHO you are is helpful when dealing with others. Don’t think you have to know it all. Just be yourself and be intentional about what you want. (Make it something good)
In closing, please remember that this life is not just about YOU. It is about all of us in getting along and loving one another. Do your part with an upright heart and just maybe you will be lifted by a spirit of joy and happiness. Get out of and over yourself by focusing on others. You may just become a more lovable person.
Elevator Guy