Pivoting in the Pandemic
What a start to the new decade in Australia: devastating bushfires followed by COVID19!
Living through any kind of crisis highlights what really matters in life. For me it has highlighted a habit of mind for most of us is to focus on the external world. Attention is habitually monopolized by what lies beyond the body and home
The lockdown, for most, has necessitated a complete reversal. To thrive in this situation, we need to find ways of being ‘at home’… within the confines of home! Initially this experience proves challenging for many people. No escape from partners, children, flat mates … and no distractions from being by yourself! The French philosopher, mathematician and physicist, Blaise Pascal stated “All men’s miseries derive from not being able to sit in a quiet room alone’. What a great opportunity we have now to nurture befriending ourselves and families!
A dictionary definition for ‘pivot’: that on which anything depends or turns. Living through this pandemic highlights the need for pivotal, personal skills. Skills like being centred, flexible, open, creative and kind. Practicing being mindful of where attention needs to be and what is needed in the moment.
To effectively navigate daily life during this crisis, awareness of the spectrum of loss and growth, sadness and optimism, challenge and opportunity is vital. A pivotal time to refine awareness skills. Exploring all kinds of ways to create a more wholesome, stable and resourceful mind. Ways to make the inner world equally important as the world outside.
The old saying ‘every cloud has a silver lining’ rings so true during these times. If we are lucky enough to have a roof over our heads, food on the table, and basic necessary possessions, there is a silver lining … even a golden one! All kinds of things that have waited for my attention are now receiving it: all kinds of mess and disarray in my office, archaeological digs in shelves and cupboards, neglected pots/patches in the garden … no to mention unattended business projects! It can be a time of personal renewal and recreation.
I have felt absolutely heartened to witness all kinds of positive, creative responses – locally and internationally. In my street, a Facebook page has been created, so we can all keep in touch. All kinds of little warm interactions are happening up and down the street. Many people are reaching out to vulnerable people to provide essential support. Little things, like chalk drawings and teddies in windows light up lives.
This is a unique time for families to nourish relationships, developing skills like active listening, curiosity, empathy and patience. Finding all kinds of ways to do things differently inside and outside the home. Indoors all kinds of projects are possible, from baking to making creative art and craft creations. Autumn is such a beautiful time to enjoy being outdoors.
A great time to engage children in discovering the ‘extra’ in what may seem ordinary … with bird watching, gardening and making art from simple natural objects, like this fabulous weaving frame my talented art teacher friend, Michele, is sharing with her online classes to students.
The words of Mahatma Gandhi keep weaving through my mind: ‘Live simply so that others may simply live’. This pandemic feels like a global ‘wake- up call’!! If we can invest in nourishing our bodies, minds and spirits during this time, we create an inner well to draw on, to care for others and the natural world.
Janet Etty-Leal
