This is the most challenged I have been professionally. Even 9/11 and the 2008 recession were easier than the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic. Every day is an emotional roller coaster. And one day’s work feels like one week. But, I feel so fortunate and grateful that I have the privilege of going to work. There are so many people who have been laid off and businesses forced to close. As a small business owner, I have been offered and given way too much unsolicited advice on what to do during these times. Some of it has been beneficial, most of it has not.
I have become a well-studied person on the Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Plan. I have read the legislation creating it. I have watched webinars on it. I have read many articles about it. I have talked to multiple bankers, CPAs, and other business owners. And from my perspective, this plan reminds me of how people perceive The Bible and The Constitution. They are one document, but there are many differing interpretations on what it says and how you should apply it. My application was one of the first submitted. Now we wait. Waiting is not easy for a person low on patience and gentleness.
My team is crushing it on all levels. At the moment, the most critical item is safety and we have always held a great safety record. But these last few weeks, my field and office crew have stepped it up. Those who can, have worked from home and their productivity has not dropped a notch. Those whose services are essential on the job sites, where we keep 6 feet apart, practice a very high level of hygiene and keep our sites under 10 people. They continue to perform at a high level.
We recently received our certification as a Best Workplace from Best Christian Workplaces Institute. This is our fifth year to receive this certification. It is such a joy to work with great people at a great workplace. You can read more about that in another blog.
I find myself internally screaming “Hosanna!” The word Hosanna comes from a Hebrew word meaning “save now” or “save us, we pray.” I remind myself that the sun rises at the darkest moment. I remind myself that the Christmas story occurred in the coldest months. And, I remind myself that the Easter story (and the grave is still empty) comes after a mockery of a trial, brutal beatings, and a gruesome crucifixion. And I remind myself that all circumstances are temporary.
I find empathy in the scriptures where David in the Psalms screams “God where are you?” “God, this really sucks!” I remind myself that the middle chapters of Job are not the end of the story. And I remind myself that Job’s friends did a pretty good job of comforting him up until they opened their mouths and started talking.
I mourn the loss of lives. I mourn the loss of more to come. The phrase “more people die of the flu” breaks my heart. Maybe it is true, but it is not beneficial and sure as hell does not promote good will to me.
I mourn the loss of income for so many. Emotional and mental wounds and scars from financial hardships are as damaging as any disease.
And, I remind myself that, like all circumstances are temporary, so are all seasons. This season of the Coronavirus pandemic will pass. I have great hope and faith that on the other side of this season there will be new life. Beauty arises from ashes. When the floodwater recedes, the new vegetation is overwhelming. When the forest fire is gone, the forest is healthier. Together, we will prevail!
