All along during the Coronavirus pandemic, I’ve been claiming that as an introvert, I welcomed the time at home. I enjoyed a recent bout of self-isolation with a light case of shingles. Finding both organization and cleaning projects to sink myself into was great. The time just flew!
However, when I started my stay home time as ordered by the Governor, I found myself already succumbing to cabin fever the first day. I hadn’t counted on the other worldly atmosphere created by my bare calendar. What had someone done with my busy life, as I’d come to know it? Every day of the week normally includes some activity that gets me out the door and into contact with others. How would I handle this inactivity and keep my sanity?
Aha! I noted an incongruity in the word inactivity. Just because I remained at home, I could still stay busy. My activities, like my isolation, would have to be self-directed.
So, I made myself a new schedule, attempting to alternate physical and sedentary pursuits. I came up with six categories to focus on throughout the day.
Devotions came right after getting dressed and breakfast. They put me in the right frame of mind spiritually and cause my mood to be more thankful and positive.
After that, I’m ready for exercise. My condo neighbor and I try to remember the routine done during our usual Senior exercise group at the church next door, which is currently closed. We meet at the club house downstairs and exercise side by side, six feet apart. I also recognize the joy of walking in nearby neighborhoods on spring afternoons. Even with the world going crazy with thoughts of imminent disaster, nature is undisturbed in its celebration of blue skies, sunshine, and bird songs.
Organizational projects have less movement but put the gray matter to work. So far, I’ve spent time reorganizing my extensive recipe collection. I’m trimming it down from two bulky three-ring binders full of scraps of paper with hand-written recipes to computer-generated 8x11inch pages, printed on both sides. This project was inspired by my decoration of a new recipe holder. As well, I have a later plan to work on my blog compilation and the clearing of several years’ worth of receipts in my file cabinet.
My cleaning goals include the china closet, the balcony, windows, and alternate condo areas throughout the week.
For social contacts, most will be carried out via phone or text, in addition to group internet prayer sites. Our condo game group has dwindled down to one other lady who meets me on Mondays and Fridays for a Mexican Train game and puzzles. I usually make time for a daily visit with a neighbor who doesn’t get out at all due to compromised health. Church is online as well as Bible study, but our prayer group is active.
Lastly, writing is an ever-present habit, which has lately received inspiration by recent events concerning a certain virus. This outlet is helpful in expressing my angst over the negative effect on my world. However, I need to remember the opportunities it gives as well for witness and rest from our usual worldly concerns. It gives us a chance to reevaluate what’s truly important and to carry on in our new normal.
Dianna
Sharing the Fruit of Maturity
