This Week's Reflection for Hope and Resilience

This is part of a series of weekly messages of hope and resilience that will be made available through Employee Connections and printed copies for those who do not have easy access to computers. Read last week's reflection here.

One of my guiding life themes involves embracing seasons. Not necessarily the weather seasons, but the seasons that let go of what was to welcome in the new. If I'm facing a difficult time, it's always helpful to remember that all seasons end eventually. In fact, that's what defines a season; it comes for a while and then transitions into another way of being.

The problem, however, is that some seasons last for exceptionally long times. And, unfortunately, it appears that COVID-19 can also. Though it is hopeful with three vaccines now being vetted, the end of the tunnel has yet to be seen. The days, weeks and months continue to pass, although COVID-19 has not. So what is one to do to exist graciously in a time of unparalleled grief and unknowns?

My grandfather used to say that complaining never changes things; he was right. Fighting a difficult moment in time doesn’t lessen it either.

Could expressing fury over a prolonged, bitter winter alter it? Could we hurry a baby along to kindergarten by telling her to grow up already? Certainly not. 

Resisting or denying a season or an ongoing experience doesn’t impact it at all. One of my favorite authors said if you can’t get out of a situation or problem, the only real solution is to get into it. Embrace it. Learn from it. Accept it. 

It's the only real way out.

What have you been resisting about the pandemic that you should embrace? What have you denied that actually needs to be more deeply examined or explored? Frequently, difficulty presents as one thing, yet is mysteriously another. 

What have you been resisting, fighting or denying that needs to be reassessed? 

The first step toward healing, which we all need, is to closely scrutinize what is. Only after we fully comprehend it and accept it, can we prepare to move beyond it.

- Chaplain Crystall Williams, Methodist Hospital
 

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We know these are difficult times. If you would like to speak with a chaplain for support, please feel free to reach out.

Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women’s Hospital: Call Operator “0” and ask for the chaplain to be paged.

Methodist Fremont Health: Call Scott Jensen at (402) 290-1408.