“I know I’m dying. It’s strange; I feel as though I’m in a holding pattern, but I can’t tell if I’m waiting to land or waiting to take off.” These were among the last sentiments from a meaningful conversation between my respected friend and me. When I asked if she was afraid, she answered “Yes. If I’m being honest.” We can empathize to some degree, lately. We’re in a holding pattern; waiting and wondering how long? How long until normal? Will normal be the same when it arrives? Some have been very afraid. Most of us, though, aren’t facing death due to COVID-19. Heartbreakingly, some of us have lost loved ones due to the current pandemic. There have been 18,260 deaths at the time of this writing (WHO and CDC data). Equally heartbreaking are the losses due to countless other causes. Truly, every single one of us has or will lose loved ones, and we will all leave loved ones behind when we leave this life, soon or late. Personal perspective on these facts determines our feelings. The feelings of the collective members of the human family have been generally fearful, when it comes to the new coronavirus. We’ve feared and hidden for safety’s sake. We’ve banded together while distancing… and now we’re winning the war. The toughest and most frightening part is past. We know what we’re dealing with, we learned what must be done and we’re doing it. We’re pulling together as a community and it’s paying off. Fear is giving way to hope. It has been difficult. It’s been painful for many of us. Yet, we’re beginning to see the signs of a coming season of recovery. We can be proud of how we’ve worked together with dignity to protect the most fragile among us. Yes, we’ve been afraid. We’ve been angry. We’ve been heartbroken, but we have also been strong. We’ve been longsuffering. We’ve been wise. We’ve been charitable. Even in the face of death, we’ve been brave. Death has always been and will always be around, and though we’re making headway and we’re going to make it through this difficult time, we aren’t finished, yet. We still need to hold the line. Be patient. I’ve been told that time spent at home is the best part of a life well-lived. Now that the season of fear is passing, let’s prepare for the coming of a brighter time. Let’s change gears and perspective: While we’re in holding a bit longer, let’s acknowledge the strengths that come from trials. Discover opportunities to grow through the challenges today. Be grateful. Be especially helpful and kind to someone. Be proud of how we’re working together. I am! Be well.

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