What powerful life lessons have we learned?

Life has changed drastically over the last few months. Everything has been shrouded in uncertainty. And this pandemic has really brought out our humanity and our vulnerabilities.

But there are a few things that have become clear over these past few months:

1. Health is wealth.

During this crisis, we learned the true value of being healthy (it’s priceless.). Many of us know of or have seen people fall gravely ill from this disease. Many of us have been fearful of falling ill ourselves. Many of us have been closely tracking the daily infection rates and epidemiologic curves, both at local and national levels.

With minimal treatment options at the height of the pandemic, the best weapon against this invisible enemy was and is our own body. A strong immune system and lack of baseline chronic conditions significantly increases your chances of full recovery.

I think (and hope) that this public health emergency has inspired us all to take our health and lifestyles a bit more seriously in the future—by watching what we put into our bodies, staying active, obtaining indicated medical care, and abiding by public health measures.

2. Experiences and relationships are more important in life than things.

During this period of socially distancing and lack of gatherings, we have learned that what we miss is human connection. During this pandemic, you were lucky if you had family and friends to quarantine with, check in on you, or perhaps bring you groceries and medications.

I have found myself, like many others, reminiscing about birthdays, travels, parties, and family events. These human interactions and memories cannot be replaced by “things”. If and when these activities are possible again, never again will we take for granted these quality times.

Tomorrow is never promised—live life in the moment, and appreciate those around you.

3. The importance of being financially stable.

This pandemic has catapulted us into a period of economic and financial instability. Financial stability (and financial responsibility) is a life lesson that we may have been taught before, but given these uncertain times we now see the true value of this lesson.

Many have been layed off, furloughed, unable to find stable unemployment, or otherwise consumed with worries regarding job security. This period has emphasized the importance of having an emergency fund (ideally 3-6 months of living expenses), and if possible, to have multiple sources of income.

4. The importance of mental health.

The mental health fallout from this pandemic is inevitable, both now and in the near future.
According to a poll conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 56% of Americans reported that the pandemic had led to at least one negative mental health effect.

In addition to fear of getting sick, there have been the added pressures of working from home, job insecurity, social isolation, possible domestic abuse, financial insecurity, child care, and homeschooling.

This pandemic has been a great test of resilience.

But in any crisis there is opportunity for growth.

An opportunity to use our life experience to improve our futures.

As we move forward as a community and world, hopefully we do not lose sight of these powerful lessons learned.