Strange times - COVID 19

I have not been here for a while but now I seem to have time available - due to COVID-19. I also feel the need to write. A sense of calm is what I am seeking whilst shelves go empty and information seems to be flying in from multiple sources.

I receive the same information throughout the day - via my phone - and it is does not stop. Knowledge is power - Information is also power - but what happens when it becomes an overload and creates or adds to anxiety and panic. It is natural and human to react to the current events but not everyone will react in the same manner.

It is good to stay aware and vigilant - doing what one deems necessary - handle the new norm whichever way we can. However, some quiet time is also needed in order to stay present with ourselves and/or our loved ones .......and not only spending the present moment in fear.
Fear creates stress which impacts on our overall well being. Not a good things during these strange day.

I am not sure what I really want to say but I am reminded of one of my favorite poems - Desiderata by Max Ehrmann. It was written in 1927 but it is still very relevant.

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_Dramatic skies_March 2020

Desiderata
GO PLACIDLY amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be.

And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

By Max Ehrmann © 1927