reevaluating

Use this time to reevaluate everything.
​~Joshua Becker

This virus has hit all of us hard...and some have been hit harder than others. Not all of the effects have been negative, however. A murmur can be heard about clear water in the Venice canals + sightings of the Himalayas as pollution recedes. Healthcare workers are being cheered at shift changes + neighbors are looking out for neighbors they have never met. Many of us are wondering if the recognition of some of these phenomenon will cause any lasting change in people's thinking or habits. I like to make these types of questions personal...otherwise I'm just wondering what others will do. How will I choose to change my habits as a result of my slowing + noticing during this time? How can I expand my reach + be a part of change making?

Some of the things I'm thinking about include:
-Life is stressful right now. What about my life is working + what could be simplified? The amount of stuff in our house? The children's toys? My wardrobe? ​My expectations? 

-Our schedules are quieted at the moment. What will we choose to add back when we can? 

-Our jobs are impermanent. Not all of them are essential. Will we choose a vocation based on contribution to the common good rather than money?

-People are suffering. How will we respond? How will we work to change systems to serve all of us better?

-Money is tight for so many. Will we share our resources? Will we tune in to what is essential? Will we embrace "less" + "enough"?

-Many of us are working from home. Can we keep some cars off the road more often? Can we fly for work less?

-Previously identified "unskilled workers" are now recognized as "essential workers". Will we act to raise the minimum wage?

-Everyone deserves healthcare. Will we demand that our representatives change laws + policies? Will we vote accordingly?

-Children are being taught at home. Will we value teachers more, make sure they are paid well + have the resources they need?

-Personal protective equipment for healthcare workers is running out. Will we demand that made-in-the-USA production is protected + supported?

-Some of us are spending more time outside. Will we value nature + our public lands more + act to protect them?

-We are eating at home. Will we choose whole foods over convenience? Will we tune in to our food supply chain more? Will we value farmers + those who harvest our food more? Will we act to give them the respect, rights + wages they deserve? 

-The health of each of us can affect others. We are all connected. Will we let our fear feed nationalism, racism + greed or will we help each other?

How will we choose to respond today? How will we use our newfound awareness to influence lasting change?

​Love,
​Jane