What does the word Pandemic mean to you? When I look at the word Pandemic I see first the word “Panic” which is what we saw in the streets, the media, and pretty much in the world. Pandemic means much death, suffering and sickness.
To others it means other things; job loss, isolation, starvation, loss… I could go on. This has been a very difficult year. But it also has been a year of miracles. They don’t report on the news those who have recovered from CoVid-19, those who have found God, or become closer to God by helping those who suffering.
I invite others to please tell what positive things that have happened to them due to this Pandemic. Please search your heart and share ….
I learned Christlike living at home, where charity—the pure love of Christ—compassion, and a desire to lift and bless the lives of others were the standard and where, though my parents did not read me the scriptures, they lived them. No my parents were not perfect. In fact when I was a kid I was so jealous of other kids who seemed to have so much more than me, I didn’t see what a blessing I had at home where we were taught Christlike values by my parents example.
I love the song “Have I Done Any Good In The World Today” It is such an excellent question we all should ask ourselves often.
I feel good after helping someone. I think this is a cure for feeling down. It’s a remedy for the blues and focusing on your own problems.
1. Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need? Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad? If not, I have failed indeed. Has anyone’s burden been lighter today Because I was willing to share? Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way? When they needed my help was I there? [Chorus] Then wake up and do something more Than dream of your mansion above. Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure, A blessing of duty and love. 2. There are chances for work all around just now, Opportunities right in our way. Do not let them pass by, saying, “Sometime I’ll try,” But go and do something today. ’Tis noble of man to work and to give; Love’s labor has merit alone. Only he who does something helps others to live. To God each good work will be known. Text and music: Will L. Thompson, 1847–1909, alt.
I used to sing this to my kids in the morning to wake them up. I was hoping they would listen to the words and one day try them out.
It really works. When you start doing work to help someone out that is in need,
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the tasks we have on our plates. Taking the time to ask ourselves why we are doing them can help us remember the bigger picture our daily tasks are leading us to.
How do I stay motivated?
Try to understand your role in the universe. You didn’t arrive on this earth or get to where you are now without connections or history. You have ancestors who worked hard and had values. You have parents who did their best. And you have a spiritual connection to God, the Creator of the universe. Meditate on that for just a moment: the guidance and assurances from an all-powerful God who loves and cares for you; the sacrifices made by the people who came before you. Think of the hard work it took them to get you to this point. Let this be a motivator for you.
How do I stay on task?
Make a game of tedious tasks, or contemplate meaningful things in your day-to-day life while you work. Listen to inspirational podcasts. Make a list of your tasks and give them each a time frame for completion. Be smart about the order in which you accomplish tasks. Organize your tasks so your time is efficient. Some tasks require more brainpower—do those first. Some require low distractions—turn off phones and close your door so you can focus in peace and quiet. Write down the things that give meaning to your life. When you know you have a family to get home to or a person to help, it gives purpose to your goals.
