COVID-19 Instrospections — Part 1
The new games and virtual activities have made me contemplate my selfhood, which made me consider my core values and beliefs. As my thoughts typically tend to go off on tangents, I proceeded to ponder multiple important concepts. I believe these concepts have and will influence my choices, lifestyle, and priorities. I decided to present three at the top of my list this week.
Death: I think about death. I think about how it could possibly affect those around me. I consider how I would die and if I would have achieved my purpose.The good thing is that I know I am fulfilling my purpose when I am being a blessing to others, worshipping God, and taking each day at a time to believe in God. Death is therefore not as scary as it used to be. I certainly appreciate the conversation I had about death earlier this year. It was a could prelude to the current COVID-19 situation.
Alot of people have died recently and I hope their families are comforted during this time as they mourn those they lost and are struggling to stay safe themselves. Have you contemplated the fact that they have it really bad and are facing the concept of death head on?
I believe that the reason for the mass hysteria during this season is a fear of death. I have wondered if the world would be calmer right now if more people knew that “to live is Christ and to die is gain” Phil 1:21. I have confidence in God’s plan and this is why I am not hysterical.
Are you confident in God’s plan for your life, future, the world, and this season?
Side note, let us be extra vigilant about the people who have lost loved ones or have sick family members. An encouraging message, a prayer, and gifts go a long way.
Life: I have always wanted to live life to the fullest. I still believe that life should be fun and we can create enjoyment wherever we find ourselves. Although responsibilities, finances, and relationships cause me to live in moderation, I do not want to hold back. I love to do what I can when I can and apply as much energy as possible into it. You probably should too. Try new things, be adventurous, but balance it out. I also believe that the best life to live is a life spent in the life giver, Jesus. He makes life worth living.
The tendency for us during this time is to anticipate when we will get back outside. When we can finally live. I think we are living now, just under different conditions. We can interact with other people, hug those around us (hugs are medicinal I have come to find), read, smile, introspect, dance in your living room… live.
Are you waiting for this to be over before you believe that you are indeed living your best life?
Leadership: I spent most of my life in Nigeria(known for bad leadership and a bad economy despite the natural wealth in the country) and Botswana (known for being one of the best African counrties). I understand the difference between bad and better leadership. I also see the value in promoting communal virtues so that the nation has a whole shares and regulates morals. I understand that leaders impact countries, but I also know that no human is perfect and even ‘good’ leaders have flaws. I have come to understand that leadership on earth should be flawed because we cannot operate in the capacity that God can.
At this time, governments are making new policies and rules that have merits and demerits and it is hard to situate myself within these new devlopments. Some policies/benefits/compensations are good and will go a long way, some are unfair… how do I evaluate and react to them?
I do not know what my role is in terms of political leadership. Do I need to keep up with new behaviours, policies, and regulations? How current must I be on world/current affairs? What do I do with the information I recieve? I know I can make a difference by signing petitions sometimes but it’s all pretty confusing do you feel the same way? Maybe we shoud actively think about leadership.
I struggle with the concept of leadership because I believe in leadership by example but I also believe in division of labour based on gifting and capacity. I understand that different strokes work for different folk. One thing I do know is that the best followers are the best leaders. As a citizen/resident in whatever country you may be in, have you been a reputable/honourable citizen/follower? At your workplace, within your family unit, at church… how have you balanced out leadership and followership?
In your walk with Jesus, has he been leading or just following you around while you do your own thing?
I have not figured out leadership yet but one thing I know is that individuals like you and I can take ownership of our spheres of influence and lead in service and well-doing.
While you have time to think, don’t forget to enjoy the little things. This is the time to rest, think, and be…
Thank you for reading this piece. Till next week!
