Life is so different these days. All of our familiar comforts and familiar routines are gone. New ones replace them during an unprecedented time in our history. We are all in this together and yet so. very. isolated. So much of this is simply not okay. However, what if some of it, some of it, really is…..

Maybe it’s ok that we have to stay home and take care of our families.

Maybe it’s ok that a morning walk serves as THE activity.

Maybe it’s ok that we can’t run to the grocery store as soon as we need something.

Maybe it’s ok that we cook and eat more intentionally.

Maybe it’s ok that we make it a point to support local businesses that matter to us.

Maybe it’s ok that we develop a deeper (and I mean deeper) appreciation for teachers. Turns out their job is much more difficult than we ever imagined.

Maybe it’s ok that we practice gratitude for our doctors, our nurses, and all those on the front lines of healthcare today and every day.

Maybe it’s ok that we spend more time talking to our neighbors.

Maybe it’s ok that wine and cheese at home fills our soul as much as a fancy dinner out on the town.

Maybe it’s ok to ask what we can do for each other.

Maybe it’s ok to let others who need it more to have it first. Maybe it’s ok that we practice waiting our turn.

Maybe it’s ok that we emerge from this, whenever that will be, changed. That we return with more patience, more faith, and more gratitude. That we return having learned the lessons we’ve all had time to reflect upon. That we return with a deeper appreciation for our health, for our freedom, and for one another.

Find the joy (and stay at home!)

Jessica

Jessica McCauley, M.Ed. is a parenting coach/consultant. She draws on her background as a Montessori educator and Child Life Specialist to help families navigate the challenges of the early childhood years. Contact Jessica at http://smallhandsbigsteps.com/contact/ for more information or to schedule a consultation.