When I began 2020, I had such grandiose dreams of goal conquering. I sat down and made my little list of accomplishments I’d like to decorate myself with, and I even put a solid foot forward as the year began.
But 2020, as I believe all humanity has felt in some measure or another, had plans so different from those that we wrote down. When COVID-19 broke through barriers and intruded into our societies, it certainly reframed everything earthly that we know and love in such a short time.
I’ve grappled daily through this year, wrestling my rising tears, my overwhelm, my stress, my defeat; falling into bed each night so bone weary that I literally just hurt.
And I know that I am not alone. The collective mourning, suffering, struggling, heartbreak and spiritual oppression of my tribe has made itself known.
“Why are you writing such sad stuff on a blog with joy in the name?” You might be wondering…
…and rightfully so. The reason I am sharing this testimony is because nothing brings greater freedom than the truth. And in freedom there is space. And space brings so many opportunities for joy.
So, my friends, my beloved ones: How can we move on from this place? How can we rework our lives to bring happiness back in, when so many avenues of joy have been snuffed out?
First, we can’t give up on joy. There are so many accounts in God’s word of His people living in despair…
COVID 19 Survival Kit Endcap
Our garage gym, until our state opens back up!
Trying to find joy on our mommy-son ‘date’ to the store to pick ice cream.
But it is always temporary. His people were always given victory, and I believe with all that I am that joy is a victory worth the struggle.
Next, please, join me in having grace for humanity. We have all lost our minds, our stability, our framework of normalcy, our traditions, and our freedoms in some measure. As our loved ones and community try and figure this new way forward, let us love them. Let us have patience. Let us have respect.
Finally, let’s redefine what true joy is. For me, it used to be community worship in a sanctuary without social distancing, Saturday morning workouts with my husband at the gym, and then a visit to the hot tub to catch up with each other, while our kids were happily cared for in the free childcare, or a trip to the community playground in the evenings.
Now, it’s family walks discovering new parts of the large garden in our neighboring park, as we wait for the playgrounds and gyms to re-open. It’s church in bed on Sunday mornings because we aren’t fully open yet. It’s different, but it is still true joy to be with each other.
As you read this, I pray that your heart can be lighter, your spirit just a little less pained, and your future just a touch brighter. My hope is for your joy, no matter the struggles!