A Pandemic Thanksgiving — Michelle Blan
Have you seen the numbers lately? They are rising. And, quickly. Back in March, we found ourselves really glued to the news, whether it was on the television, our phones, on the satellite radio in the car, etc. We needed to hear what was going on and make sure we were informed.
Yes, we were those people.
I’ll admit it’s not healthy to stay glued to the news. It’s not. And, I know that. But, when the world around you seems like it is facing an unknown, deadly opponent, you listen. You pay attention. As the pandemic grew and the world started to get more and more out of hand, we shut it off.
Months ago, never in a million years would I have imagined we’d be where we are now. I don’t think many of us did. Sure, my mom was making Christmas masks in July, but I thought it was just something for her to do – we wouldn’t actually need them by Christmas. Yet, we do. In fact, I’ve been wearing my Christmas mask because, why not?
Well, what do ya think of my Santa cows 😉 ?
We didn’t do things right the first time and we find ourselves here again. And, something tells me that this round could be worse. That is my thought, not the news. Because, well, I haven’t been watching the news.
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.” John 14:1
As the holidays approach, though, I find myself getting nervous and a little uncomfortable. I tell myself that we aren’t a huge family and we don’t have people flying in from all over. I tell myself that getting together for Thanksgiving and Christmas will be fine if we take precautions. Part of me knows it will be. The other part of me wonders if its our selfishness and desire to be near our loved ones and experience the holiday magic that overrides any sense of rational thinking.
What do you think? What are your holiday plans? I’d love to know. Really.
As humans, we need physical contact. We need that embrace from one another. We need the closeness of loved ones to let us know that – even if for a moment – all is right in the world. I’m a loner and I can still totally get it.
Is the risk of getting together and potentially spreading a deadly virus any lower or higher than the risk of having our elders and loved ones ache for closeness, love, and a warm embrace? Which is greater? Can you even measure it?
When I find myself getting spun in circles by these thoughts, I find comfort in this…
None of this is new to God. He already knew about COVID-19 and he knows what is to come in the future. It is all part of a plan. We don’t see it (or even understand it), but he does. He always does.
Of course, it doesn’t answer the question of whether or not you should be getting together with family this year, but it helps knowing that no matter what, he is right there to see us through, right? You know, to the other side of this ugly pandemic.
So, hang tight, my friends. It’s just a season. If you decide to get together with your loved ones or travel next week, then wonderful. Just be careful and take precautions. If you decide to stay put – even better.
As we head into the holiday season, be sure to include those healthcare workers and other essential workers in your prayers of healing and peace.
“I am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” – John 14:27
Until next time… ❤❤
