Keeping the Momentum

Quarantine has been a mixed bag for many people. For parents, it’s been a struggle trying to juggle kids, work, and life. For single persons and married couples without kids, it’s been about trying to stay ahead of everything. In most

cases, we feel like we’re all trying to tread water.

Adjusting to the new normal has been quite a journey in my household. The cat is probably the most bothered by the change in routine, because cats are creatures of habit. They like things to be the way they are, and when they change, they aren’t happy about it.

But, there have been a lot of things accomplished in our household during quarantine. Things that we’ve discussed doing, but just haven’t had the time to do. For example:

• Setting up a new cat tree/cat area

• Organizing all of the board games in the living room (there are a lot, people)

• Finally catching up on the never-ending pile of laundry

• Cleaning the pantry area.

And probably a bunch of other things that I haven’t listed. We have started some new habits and routines that are healthy for everyone - like taking time to rest, and connecting with old friends. And letting ourselves sleep in on occasion.

I share all this because I believe that there is a lot to be said about the “new normal” that we find ourselves in. Many people want to go back to normal - but normal is, likely, never going to be the same.

So, my question is - what good habits have you developed during quarantine? Have you…

• Started to have regular time with your family every evening?

• Made a point to talk to people who you didn’t get in touch with as often as you’d like to?

• Eaten at home more?

• Enjoyed more time outside in Creation?

• Allowed yourself to actually experience what Sabbath has to offer?

• Finished reading a book (I’m almost there!)?

• Started a new hobby or picked an old one back up?

• Found more time to be thankful?

• Spent more time with God?

We have such an opportunity here to reinvent our lives, and I want to believe that many of us will do exactly that. This household is going to give this new normal a try when this is over.

What habits will remain for you?