Lessons From COVID-19 – Dr. Frank Merritt
BY DR. FRANK MERRITT ON APRIL 25, 2020 PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE FENDER
My grandfather said, “Life is the greatest teacher.” Learning from life’s experiences, and applying those lessons to enhance our lives and the lives of others around us is the key. COVID-19’s quarantine and social distancing has its share of difficulties but at the same time it has afforded us some benefits and taught us some powerful lessons. Below is a compilation of lessons that I have gathered in conversation with others.
1) “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, …” (The Bible, NIV, Hebrews 12:1). Life’s trials can be long and better suited for endurance-minded individuals who possess grit. Be a marathoner more so than a sprinter. Remember, you don’t necessarily have to “beat” the adversity; you just need to outlast it. Relax and offer yourself and others a little grace when things are tough.
2) Nature has benefitted from the slowing of human pollution and overconsumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. The media reported that air and water quality around the world has dramatically improved. Citizens of Punjab, India, are visibly seeing the Himalayas for the first time in this generation while waterways like the canals in Venice, Italy, report more wildlife activity. With that being said, it’s a great time to get outside for some fresh air. Remember, outside time can boost those happy hormones such as serotonin and helps reset your circadian cycle for better sleep, too.
3) Life out of the “rat race” is good. If you’re like my family and me, there are some things we wish to resume, but honestly, we have found that we were overextended with duties and activities. We are being reminded what parts of our jobs and lives are “essential.” The Hawaiians have a saying: “Slow down, this ain’t the mainland.” Their point is to slow life down enough to enjoy it. Remember, each time we say “yes” to one activity, we are saying “no” to others. Maybe less truly is more in regard to a quality life.
4) Life has been quieter for us during this time. There have been temptations to interrupt this quiet with calls, TV/movies, texts, social media, and more. Overall, we all have experienced more quiet time, which leads to more thinking, reflection on life, and introspection on how we treat others. “Be still and know that I am God” comes to mind
LESSONS FROM COVID-19
- Maybe when this period of extreme hygiene comes to an end, it will have instilled in us the need for proper hygiene. Maybe our society has become too reliant on antibiotics, antivirals, and other medicines, and too relaxed on time-tested truths such as washing hands, not touching your face, and quarantining an ill family member. These are simple but effective measures that most of our mothers taught us and can be found in ancient history including the Old Testament books of Leviticus and Numbers. Obviously, I am thankful for vaccines, medicines, and hospitals, but good hygiene should be our first line of defense. After COVID-19 we will still have other bacteria and viruses like the flu, which, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), was responsible for an estimated 24,000–62,000 deaths in the U.S. from October 1, 2019, through April 4, 2020.
- Since we cannot travel, many have realized the beauty and opportunities of the places we call home. Some report enjoying things nearby like nature trails and waterways that they have never explored. No matter where you live, there are opportunities awaiting the curious soul.
- This time has reinforced the value of human touch and interaction. Yes, technology has been great at bridging our social needs during COVID-19, but I can’t wait to see our friends at the ball fields, church, or the beach. I’m ready for some hugs, high-fives, and fist bumps.
- We have realigned our appreciation for people and professions. Instead of idolizing an athlete or celebrity, I champion the police, firefighters, ER/hospital doctors and nurses, paramedics, teachers, grocers, postal and delivery personnel, and many more. They are the true heroes of our society now and always.
- We more deeply realize the liberties we are afforded. Today we walked on the beach for the first time since March. Wow! Let us never forget to honor and respect our military and the families of the fallen warriors who have fought and protected our “pursuit of happiness.” It’s a great time to sit down and write 10 things for which you’re thankful.
- We are spending more time with family and loved ones. Many parents or grandparents are helping their children with distance learning. Parents report learning more about math, science, etc, but more importantly, they’re learning more about their kids. Personally, I enjoy 10 o’clock each day when my wife Regina and I become coaches who instruct and, when able, participate in the physical education activities. Some days we switch it up, letting the kids lead us. We laugh a lot trying to attempt their PE. Additionally, many are using this opportunity to teach their children life skills such as cooking, cleaning, yard work, and other around-the-house projects. A friend told me that organizing a carwash that his entire family participated in was more fun and much less expensive than their usual family fun nights.
- Many of us are carving out a little more “me” time during COVID-19. Whether it’s reading, praying, meditation, exercising, or cultivating a hobby, investing in yourself is a good investment. I know our present-day productivity model doesn’t always applaud this but go ahead and enjoy yourself.
- We’re intentionally leaving this one blank for your input. What lesson have you learned and hope to continue after COVID-19? Share this back to the editor on the website or Facebook so others will benefit as well.
It will be interesting to see what we will do individually and as a society with this epiphany from COVID-19. While I am just as ready as others to regain some of my liberties, I honestly don’t see my family jumping completely back into the “rat race.” Maybe temperance and moderation is the proper approach? Maybe the proper approach is being selective to what and to whom we say “yes,” knowing that each yes to one person or event means no to another that may need and deserve us more. Hopefully, each of us will be wiser and reserve our “yeses” for family, neighbors, and friends, and engage only in activities that leave us and others better. Maybe we will look back on COVID-19 with the same description of Charles Dickens’ opening paragraph of his novel, A Tale of Two Cities. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”