I have been working on my tiller this week. We have mowed the yard a couple of times already. Spring is here! Trees and flowers are bursting forth with new life. Gardens are being turned. Farmers are preparing fields. It is that time of year!
It is also the time of year for school picnics, graduation ceremonies, baseball and softball games, and spring break trips. But none of these things are happening this year. Because another season has invaded our lives we could call “quarantine season.”
The ancient Bible book of Ecclesiastes famously says, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (3:1). The writer lists many of these seasons of life which include a time to be born, die, plant, harvest, weep, laugh, embrace, refrain, seek, lose, love, hate, war, and peace. These verses have given wisdom and comfort to readers since ancient times, because we realize the balance, harmony, and seasons of life. The challenge we have in life is adjusting and accepting the different seasons and times.
We are going through a season now that was unexpected, unwanted, and uncontrollable. Yet it is certainly here upon us as a season, just as the spring season is here for planting. So what should we observe about “quarantine season?”
First, recognize that “quarantine season” is just a season. This will pass. There is a “time for everything.” Life will not stay this way forever, this is a season. It is helpful to keep a longterm perspective and recognize it as a season in your year.
Second, consider what you can learn and do during this season. Each calendar or sport’s season has their own unique qualities. We benefit and enjoy the change of pace and activity that they bring. This quarantine season has brought many changes to our lives. What have you learned? What have you enjoyed? What challenges has it produced within your life? Rather than focusing on all that you cannot do during this season, focus on what you can do!
Third, look around and see how this season is affecting others. Your experience of this season is surely not the experience of everyone else. Just as winter and summer bring different joys and challenges to others, so this quarantine season hits each person and family uniquely. Some are suffering mightily, some are unchanged, and still others, are enjoying the season. Don’t put your experience over on everyone else. Open your eyes to understanding others, loving them, and helping those in need.
“For everything there is a season” . . . (Ecc. 3:1). This is only a season.
