29Mar
Many specialists advise adopting and maintaining a daily schedule for dealing with social distancing. I know of no “thou shalt establish a schedule” verse, but there are many passages that give instructions for the various routines in the lives of the ancient near easterners who worshipped Yahweh. The Bible prescribes methods for sacrifices, for celebrating holidays, for cooking, and many other regular duties of life.
It is good advice to have set go-to-bed and set get-up times. Allow yourself enough sleep to be refreshed, but not too much. Researchers tell us that too much sleep and contribute to depression. Have goals for the day. If you are working from home, your goals will be set for you by the demands of work. If you have children at home, their care and education will provide goals. As much as you can, set at least a few goals that, when accomplished, you will feel good about the achievement. Whatever your circumstances, don’t just lay around all day.
Take a hike! We can exercise proper social distancing while we walk. Getting out of the house in the fresh air and even seeing other walkers will lift your spirits. Work on reading something that you have wanted to read. If we only read a few pages a day, it adds up quickly to entire books completed. Be creative. Invent something to do with your family or online with your friends. My wife’s MOPS table group had a “Happy Hour” online. They each prepared something fun to drink and snack on and gathered online for some fun. Maybe you will invent a new tradition. The children of Israel would build lean-tos and camp out in the yard every year to commemorate the journey of their ancestors. What can you or your family come up with that is fun? Call, email, or text someone to let them know you are thinking about them. Being a blessing to others almost always backfires, causing you to be blessed!
This shelter at home order will not last forever. The more we, in mass, take steps to avoid the virus, the sooner the curve will flatten, and we can begin careful steps back to normal. Stay safe, and God bless!
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