It’s a scary time to be a human. As we face the uncertain future of how great the effects of COVID-19 will be on our lives, the planet, and every aspect of it. We all feel helpless, overwhelmed, and scared. We are all affected by this pandemic… literally every single person.

My 2020 favorite quotes come from Frozen 2. Right after they had to leave the town, Olaf says, “We’re calling this ‘controlling what you can when things feel out of control.” Later on, when Anna is alone in the cave, she sings ‘The Next Right Thing’– ”

“So I’ll walk through this night

Stumbling blindly toward the light

And do the next right thing “

So, what can you control? What is the next right thing? What can you do?

Of course, there’s the standard practices recommend by the WHO and the CDC like washing your hands thoroughly/often AND practicing social distancing.

A fantastic local blogger, Holy City Sinner, recently posted a great blog full of ways to help. From donations, virtual tip jars, volunteering, to petitions, there is something for every one to help.

You could also try starting/joining your neighborhood pod.

• Get to know and share contact info with your neighbors from the recommended distance, of course.
• Create a Facebook Group or something similar to stay in communication.
• Share needs and/or supplies. The only way we get through this is by looking out for each other.

Keep in touch with family and friends.

• Check in frequently during the week, especially with grandparents and the front line workers like health care employees, grocery and gas station employees, sanitation staff, etc.
• You can Text, Call, Video Chat, Email, etc. My personal favorite is sending images of babies, animals, or gifs.
• Support local businesses.

Remember to take care of yourself physically and mentally.

• Follow Changes Counseling Center on Facebook for some helpful tools for yourself and families.
• Try to go outside at least once a day. Take a walk, ride your bike, stretch, read a book, just breathe, etc.
• Try not to eat all those emergency cookies at one time.
• Sometimes just surviving is all you need to do.

Hang in there everyone! Sending much love, prayers, healing vibes, peace, and hope to you. Do what you can.