The world is a battlefield. Fight, but without exception, choose kindness

As we continue with our extraordinary lives, I find that we all are experiencing unanticipated highs and lows through the social distancing restrictions.

Some of us see them as the very framework of safety and protection of our population from the threat of this virus, others struggle to see the isolation from family and friends as anything but a greater threat to their mental health than any physical health fear.

Some of us are crippled by the financial stress of the impact of so many industries coming to an abrupt close, their business plans, goals and micro-economy crashing down. While others find comfort in the sheer numbers who require and are receiving financial support payments and grants, who see they are one of a large population who are being supported and feel grateful for this. While others swing like pendulums, sometimes connecting so strongly to see positivity of where we are at, and then swinging wildly to equal and opposite emotions as they are overtaken by the fear of the threat of this virus.

Whoever you are, and wherever you sit with COVID-19 – be it that you are wrestling with your fears, or embracing the chance for a long home-stay; be it that you are angered by the political decisions, or in full support of the actions; be it that you are an adopter of the conspiracy theories, or feel the truth is clear; be it that you have new respect for our essential workers who are ready in hospitals should this threat increase; or, be it you are one of those incredible workers bravely facing long hours each day; know this – it is okay to feel how you feel. It is okay to be scared. It is okay to be happy. It is okay to feel threatened. It is okay to feel safe. Wherever you are through this crisis, it is okay, and it will be okay.

The world is a battlefield. Nations around the world are battling, and right now, this virus is our target. Our country seems to have been successfully battling to flatten the curve and will continue to battle to keep everyone safe, to keep everyone wanting to adhere to measures that keep them safe. And we as a community are battling – battling to stay positive, battling not to lose businesses, homes, opportunities, battling to reach families and loved ones. Some are battling now, some will battle later, but we will all battle.

Fight. Fight hard to ensure you are safe, that your family is safe. Fight to ensure your business is safe, that you can return to a job, that you can innovate. Fight to maintain your health, both physical and mental.

But know this … you do not fight alone. Help those around you, serve those who need service. Be open about weakness, and honest about what you need. Let people in, talk about where you are at, take comfort as you need it. Be kind to each other, we all find our own way of coping, our own focus to help us through – be it self-improvement, be it Netflix binging, be it business redesign and reinvention, be it gardening or be it glued to news and updates. As the restrictions ease, and we start to re-emerge, be kind to each other. These are extraordinary times. This is going to be an ongoing battle. And we will all need to fight, but not each other. Stay strong, stay kind, stay safe.

With love, Abby Crawford •