I have an internal sensor that goes off when it’s time to blog. I’ve been sensing I’m due for a blog post, but I’ve been putting it off because I don’t really have anything glorious or impressive to share (not that often do). Last weekend was fairly full with a family dinner, an outdoor/distanced hang out with some MOPS friends, errands, and an adventure to the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Jeremy also completed the set-up of our outdoor Christmas décor.
After the full weekend, I felt rumblings about lastest COVID-19 news. I no longer keep a watchful eye on virus news. Occasionally, I get curious about what the news is saying and take a look. I got one of those notions that I should check on things. I discovered that we are seeing record number of cases in our state. I was a bit alarmed. After what I read, I felt compelled to do a better job of sticking close to home. We are mindful while we are out and about. Our family dutifully wears our masks and uses copious amounts of hand sanitizer frequently. The only things we haven’t been too concerned about is intentionally staying home.
We wrapped up our errands during the week and went into this weekend knowing we wanted it to be a stay-at-home weekend. Turns out the theme of our weekend will now be the theme of our next few weeks. Our Washington State governor made new restrictions today as an attempt to slow the spread of the virus during the holiday season.
I tend to be a rule follower. It’s my personality. While I don’t love new restrictions, I have respect for the intention behind them. I certainly don’t mind wearing my mask to protect myself and others. I also realize that the virus is likely to spread in our homes where our guard is down. Did I love sharing a meal in a restaurant with my friend? Yes. Do I understand the reasons for take-out only? Yes. I get it. I want to do my part to solve the problem and get life back to normal.
I know opinions vary greatly on this topic. I read last week in my Bible reading plan Romans 13:1 which says “Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.” Unless my governing authorities ask me to sin, I will do my best to comply.
I acknowledge the struggle. I feel it. I see in our communities. I also realize that I have little eyes watching me right now. My kids are home. How I respond will be a part of their childhood memories and will mostly likely shape the men they grow up to be. I want to show courage to do hard things. I want to show compassion to others. I want to show that we don’t have to be isolated just because we stay home. I agree that these things take effort, but I believe it is worth it.
So now we hunker down… for at least the next four weeks… Jeremy and I will be creative to make these holidays meaningful and memorable. It won’t be easy, but it’s important. Staying home is an intentional decision for the greater good. Home for the holidays certainly has new meaning this year!
Our final forest school was a lesson on knots and knives. Graham opted to stay home with Grandma because it was so cold.
Amy Scott's Thoughts 