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Blessed Right Now

I feel blessed to be alive right now! If someone heard me at this moment, they might look at me as if I had two heads and respond with, ”Are you crazy? Don’t you realize the magnitude of this pandemic? Not only is it killing the economy, but it could kill you.” I would look at whoever says this in the eye and offer the following retort,

I know all about it as much as anyone possibly can, but I still feel grateful and remain cautiously optimistic.

Black Swan

As much as I am an optimist, I am not going to sugarcoat this dire situation. Yes, we are living in modern times with this invisible assailant surreptitiously upending our way of existence, and being a woman of a certain age, I may be more at risk than those decades younger. Even the millennials, however, are not infallible as some experience the wrath of this strange mutant. There is validity to be concerned about the course of our near future.

Yet, even as this Black Swan has swept down on the human species, there is much to appreciate about living in the now.

A Time Of The Once Upon A Time Unimaginable

A few years ago, I wrote an article focusing on the fact that there is never a better time to be alive. This current crisis reinforces that. Not only are we blessed with perpetual and increasingly refined medical innovation, but technology has allowed us to have at our fingertips the greatest purveyor of communication since the Printing Press.

Like many Baby Boomers, I remember CNN being the first news station to deliver live reports from the Desert Storm battle, 24-7. That was the mid-eighties and just a sign of what was to come. Next was the mobile phone. In 1991, I was with a friend visiting an old schoolmate of hers in Las Vegas. As we departed from the airport, he started talking on his phone. Those days which were not so long ago, the phone was as big as a walkie talkie. I was more fascinated with the fact the schoolmate could carry on a conversation with something not connected to telephone lines. Little did I know that a few years later, I would be doing the same. Who knew what would be next? Fast forward to now; imagine life without a cell phone? Most of us view it as a lifeline and panic when we forget where it is.

Who Would Have Thought?

The Internet’s development has altered our way of life, which, to some degree, Steve Jobs foresaw. Who thought that Apple would be a computer and not just a piece of fruit? How about the fact that we now say ”google” when looking for information or connect by getting LinkedIn? What about Skype, FaceTime, or Zoom? All of these apps. have not only become a part of our daily life, but the words are in our regular vernacular.

What would we do without our modern-day treatments and technology?

Let us go back 100 years. Without question, far more deaths would occur, and compared to now, the flow of information would feel like a snail’s pace. How about fifty years ago? Okay, there might have been fewer deaths, and the newspapers and the three television stations, CBS, ABC, and NBC, would convey information promptly, but medical innovation would be far more behind. Also, other than the use of the telephone, isolation would be at much higher rates.

Yes, the youth were more creative in their ability to entertain themselves back then, and adults were able to go at a less frantic pace. Yet, would anyone want to turn back the hands of time? As much as we complain about too much disconnection as a result of having excessive connection to our devices, most people would shudder at the thought of unplugging for any length of time. With that said, perhaps now, in this time of mayhem, more human connection can be attained.

Balance Between Convenience and Connection

Through this crisis, I am hearing how people are enjoying more family time, including lunch and dinners. Some parents are striking a balance between working remotely and taking time to walk and play games with their children. Other people who are more isolated due to illness take comfort with their loved ones being homebound. Although it is not the same as the human touch, there is a greater acceptance for the second-best, which are virtual exchanges. Instead of talking or texting on the phone, many of us are using FaceTime as an alternative. Some people are attending virtual dinner parties as well as other celebrations. Someone shared with me that they participated in a virtual Bar Mitzvah, and with the ability of Zoom, a few of them met in a breakout room after the main event was over.

As we hope for an end to this crisis of epic proportions, may we reflect on lessons learned. In addition to embracing healthier habits from more vigorous hand washing to a heartfelt appreciation for those who have helped tame the beast, let us embrace the kindness which has shined upon us.

Most important, we must never forget that nothing but nothing will ever replace the potency and magic of the human connection.

If we can hold onto these positives, we can be open to the rainbow, which will peak through when the storm subsides. As we do, just begin to anticipate how beautiful that will be! I cannot wait. How about you?

Your Thoughts?

What are you doing to get through these difficult times? Are you able to find healthy ways to stay calm and centered? Are you reaching out to others? What do you envision life to be like when this storm is over?

Darlene Corbett
Darlene Corbetthttps://darlenecorbett.com/
Darlene Corbett views herself as a life-long learner, a pursuer of excellence, a work-in-progress, and a seeker-of-the-truth. For over thirty years, she has been assisting people to get unstuck. Darlene's primary professional role has been as a Therapist, but now she includes Author and Writer. In 2011, Darlene began putting her thoughts on paper and hasn’t stopped. Many of her blogs can also be found on Sixty and Me, Medium, and DarleneCorbett.com. Penning these articles set the stage for her first book, Stop Depriving The World of You, traditionally published by Sound Wisdom. Throughout her career, Darlene has been described as animated or effervescent which contradicts the perception of a psychotherapist. She firmly believes in the importance of being authentic and discusses platinum-style authenticity in her book. As a believer in pushing oneself as long as one has life, Darlene’s first novel, Visible Forever, will be published in the spring of 2024 by WordCrafts Press.

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26 CONVERSATIONS

  1. Darlene,
    I like this a lot. I look at how things and people have changed over time and I am still amazed. I started in electronics at a young age working on Radios and TVs when they were all tube type and very large. I watched the change over the years and get smaller. I started working on computers when they came out and watched the age of the Internet grow. I was a part of technology, designing it, and building the networks. I saw how it was growing and I was so amazed at it and yet at times, I see it as a curse. I see the good uses and the evil uses it has. As some have said, I would have had devices in my hands when I was young, had they had them. I look at how people are now at home together and thankful for that time, and yet I think about what technology has done for me and my writing. I always look for the silver lining in a storm and there are plenty during this time. I truly feel blessed and now with being apart of this wonderful group of writers, I am blessed beyond belief. Sometimes we just need a good shake to help us see the beauty that lies before us.

    • Hi Charlie,

      Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I appreciate you sharing a similar view. As much as technology has its follies, what in the world would do without it? This community would not exist in this way if w did not have modern accommodations. 💖

    • Thank you so much, Catherine! I appreciate you reading and commenting. Have a lovely rest of the weekend.💖

  2. Blessings Darlene, focusing on God and my meditative prayer time, writing, organizing aspects of my day to day life, playing cards with my spouse, watching great documentaries, being in private prayer with him, participating in on-line Mass, reading my Magnificat and meditations of the day, artwork, all of these are part of my day. But the most important is reaching out to many spiritually with love and hugs. Healthy wise, watching what and how much to eat. What do I envision when all of this is over?, Hopefully, souls will come closer to God and love one another as He has loved us. Stay connected to those who were once distant. People will hopefully be more compassionate. God Bless

    • Blessings to you also dear Lynne, and thank you for reading, commenting and giving to others. I hope the same as you. Stay safe and healthy! Have a lovely weekend!💖

  3. Darlene — I’ve had the honor of talking to a lot of educators lately about how their leading change in their schools during this crisis. First and foremost on their minds is keeping connections with their kids and colleagues. Some have started thinking about “when this is over” and to use this time to plan. Will schools go back to what they were before – the “normal” – or will their response to COVID-19 unleash innovations? There will undoubtedly be a mixture of both, but I’m most intrigued by the latter – how we will innovate to do something more meaningful for our kids.

    Great article, thank you.

    • Hi Jeff,
      First of all, it was a pleasure virtually meeting you. I appreciate your comments and your insights. My next article is going to be precisely to hope the hope of what is next. Thank you again, and I always enjoy your articles. Please tag me because I sometimes miss. Here is a ”woof” for a very nice weekend.💖

  4. I love this piece, Darlene! Thank you so much for writing it. I’m similar to you on this one. I realize the magnitude of this pandemic, but I also know that in many ways, we are fortunate. We can connect without being in the same space, and honestly, maybe this altercation to our regularly scheduled programs is necessary on some level. And I don’t say it this way to make light of it. It is nothing to sugar coat. I guess my way of getting through it is to seek the silver linings. There is always sunshine after the storm.

    I ended up losing my job in the midst of all this. I was one of six surplused due to a reorganization amid the crisis. But I’m in a positive space, and I know that there is a new chapter waiting in the wings. Perhaps even one I never imagined. I’m enjoying the quiet and the ability to recalibrate.

    But I struggle with how to help others during this time and being in lockdown. So, I decided to write what I call “distraction stories.” I posted to my FB friends that if anyone wanted to provide me with a one-word prompt that I would create a story for them. And people responded! I have completed three so far, and I look forward to having enough prompts to write for at least the next two weeks. It’s cathartic for me, and I hope that it helps my friends also. After all, we are in this together, and we are stronger together.

    I wish you well, Darlene, and thanks for this uplifting piece of work.

    • Thanks, Jeff! I’m planning to write a couple more today. Somehow I manage to stay busy for someone who isn’t working. I think my dog wishes I would go back to work so he wouldn’t have to exercise with me so much. And I think my husband is glad he’s going to work every day so as not to be tortured by my endless projects.

      I wish you and yours well!

    • Thank you, Laura! I always appreciate your insights as well as your beautiful writing. I am sorry about the loss of your job, and I am glad you are in a positive space using your gifts of creativity to give back. If you have a story you wish to share, please feel free to tag me. Stay well and healthy dear Laura.💖

    • Thank you, Darlene. So many are out of work right now, and I can only imagine how scary it might be for some. I’m grateful that we have my husband’s income and that I received a severance. It will all work out. I have to believe this to be so.

      I appreciate your support and am so glad that you are in my orbit!

  5. Darlenne my lovely I am so grateful to the universe first and to Dennis second for having had the priviledge to meet an enlightened mind and a mesmerizing soul like yourself virtually! 🤩

    I will send you a video in a DM about some of the outcomes of my lockdown, since I’m struggling today a bit! Not sure whether I was infected or if it’s because of the exagerated exposure to the screen, but I’m suffering from a horrible headache. I just couldn’t help but to interact with this masterpiece before taking a break from my devices.

    This being said, if there is a virtue making us sane and able of keeping an optimistic outlook on life despite all the hardship it could be throwing on us, it is without any doubt the incredible “gratitude” and feeling “blessed” for the most microscopic detail…

    So thank you again for your thoughtfulness and heart of gold my friend! I appreciate you very much! 💙🧚‍♀️💜

    I believe (or at least keep hoping) the world will never be the same after this message sent by the universe. It’s the humanity’s best chance to ponder and acquire another exquisite virtue: “humility”.

    I read something yesterday I would like to share below:

    This is so beautiful… ♥

    We fell asleep in one world, and woke up in another.

    Suddenly Disney is out of magic,
    Paris is no longer romantic,
    New York doesn’t stand up anymore,
    the Chinese wall is no longer a fortress, and Mecca is empty.

    Hugs & kisses suddenly become weapons, and not visiting parents & friends becomes an act of love.

    Suddenly you realise that power, beauty & money are worthless, and can’t get you the oxygen you’re fighting for.

    The world continues its life and it is beautiful. It only puts humans in cages. I think it’s sending us a message:

    “You are not necessary. The air, earth, water and sky without you are fine. When you come back, remember that you are my guests. Not my masters.”

    [Unknown ~ still looking for the author]

  6. Darlene, thank you for sharing what is truly a great article. Every day of life is a blessing. My grandson lives in Las Vegas with his mother, grandmother, and grandfather. He was diagnosed with ADD for his behavioral issues. He has a less than ideal home life. I text him several times a week. I build him up and try to make him feel good about himself. His responses to me are so filled with love. Normally when he is on his computer he will not bother with anybody but when he sees it’s me he answers. Sadly we only see him once a year. He will have a moment or two with foul language or a minor meltdown but again he responds to me because I do not yell at him or put him down as his grandparents and his mother do. He and I get along great. Behavioral problems and all I would gladly take custody of him. This is what I have been doing in addition to “planting seeds” to build-up my client base. When it comes to the internet I am passionately for it. My mother (of blessed memory) died of a stroke according to the doctors. What really killed her was loneliness. She withdrew more and more after my father died. Just a few years prior to that she had to bury her oldest daughter after she was brutally raped and killed. Making connections via social media would have been the best thing for her. If we did not have the internet and social media now I think many more people would feel isolated and alone. Nobody should have to die alone as my mother did. I last saw her the day before she died. I saw the fear of death in her eyes. She still fought to try to speak. My son broke down when he was feeding his grandmother baby food.

    • Joel, thank you for such a thoughtful and open response. I am so sorry about your mother and what she endured as well as, I am sure, you. Yes, the Internet is absolutely incredible with its reach. As far as your grandson, he has an amazing grandfather. He is absorbing love and lessons from you in ways you may never know. Thank you again!💖

  7. Oh, Darlene! I have been feeling like George Bailey and Ebeneezer Scrooge on Christmas Day-filled with an exuberance in being ALIVE and in LOVE with my life that no one and no thing can contain!! The love, gratitude, calm, and peace has expanded 100 fold inside of me! I wake up grateful to have running water, a body that can type words with fingers that move, cells that know how to digest different foods that I am eating because we have not walked into a grocery store in weeks. I have food! I can flush the toilet. I am healthy. I can share my love and joy with all I encounter. It’s always been an exceptional time to be alive we just hadn’t fully woken up to this reality.

    Living in gratitude supports me. Meditation and mindfulness supports me hugely. Exercise supports me. A quieter mind and a fuller heart supports me. Hearing the voices of loved ones on the phone supports me. Reading inspirational posts like this one supports me. Reframing constantly supports me. Asking myself “What would Love do right Now?” supports me. And I pray and meditate for all who are in the fire of this sh*& storm like we’ve never experienced before. I’m completely blessed to right now be only being touched lightly by the pain of all of it (and I’m a huge empath who knows exactly what pain, suffering, and thoughts of death can be like!!) I know I may lose many people I love because I happen to love a bunch of elderly immune system compromised people and I still am in love with being alive. Grieflove-I know how to grieve and to love and to live full out, no holds barred, unleashed, unapologetic!! Life is Now!

    I love you. Thank you for this post!!

    I even think that virus is a miracle here to teach us how to love, care, live compassionately with one another as a human family. An outlier thought I’m certain, but I’m choosing to see it as a gift. Even if it becomes a gift that takes my life. It’s teaching me what I value the most about being alive and being in connection with nature and human beings. That’s an exceptional lesson and gift!!

    #LivingLikeEverythingIsAMiracle

    • Oh Laura, as always your thoughts are beautifully expressed and mesmerizing. I send love right back your way my friend, and I am looking forward to having your beautiful book in my hands. The heart on the cover symbolizes you which is love.💖

  8. Thank you for the positively positive words Darlene. I’ve often felt the same about technology. We get upset with the kids for being on the phone but if we were there age, would be not be doing the same?
    We don’t know what is going to occur but we must look at how we can all become better.

    • I appreciate your thoughts John. We speak the same language of positivity. Thank you as always my friend.💖

  9. Darlene I always enjoy your posts/articles. The internet, google, means of communicating makes being connected just a click away…incredible. No more email…which seems so outdated now. I keep contact with my family in California and its become so much easier and faster…we are always ‘caught up’.
    I am like you and am cautiously optimistic this is not a forever thing.
    Thank you for sharing Darlene.

    • Thank you dear a Laurie! I appreciate your thoughts, and yes, we are most fortunate to have these amazing tools available especially now.💖

  10. Darlene! I feel like you took some of these thoughts directly from my brain. I’m happy to be alive during this time and excited to see what comes next. It’s also rather empowering to know that by staying home I’m part of the fight against this terrible pathogen. There is a way I can do my part. Thank you for your words.

    Pondering this question you posed is an exercise in gratitude. I’m grateful this is happening during these times. Many years ago, the death rates would be worse.

    “What would we do without our modern-day treatments and technology?”

    • Thank you Joanna for your thoughtful response. Well, I am pleased to see I found another kindred spirit. Yes, we are blessed to be alive now. Thank you again, and when you are ready to inspire us again with another amazing article, please tag me.💖

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