If I hadn't known better, I would have thought all was right with the world.

 

After an early Tuesday morning trip to the bathroom, I cozied back into bed and wrapped up in my comforter. I listened to the rain drop in perfect rhythmic fashion as my cat curled up at my back. I had a feeling of inner peace, but then reality struck.

 

As if awakening from a nightmare in reverse, I remembered we were in a state of pandemic. Facts of the ugly Coronavirus worked their way back into my mind as I was reminded of the threats we're facing - as a world, nation, state and our own community of Bridgeport.

 

How did this happen? Just a few short weeks ago, life was normal. We went to work and school. We went to the grocery store, the gym and the mall without fear of picking up deadly germs. 

 

When it first hit home that this virus – one we knew existed on the other side of the world – was making its way to our area, we waited as if bracing for an attacker to make his move. I even dreamed about it.

 

Then positive virus cases in West Virginia and eventually our county started becoming reality. We hear it can become bad. We try to prepare. We practice social distancing. We make pleas for supplies. Businesses close. People lose their jobs. Household items became scarce. There’s certainly much to be concerned about.

 

But there is also much to celebrate. I’ve seen so much good in people. I’ve seen patience and compassion. I’ve seen our governor gather his state in prayer; something that very likely wouldn’t have happened a month ago when things were “normal.” What a blessing to know that thousands of folks among the West Virginia hills were humbling themselves before God and uniting in prayer.

 

I’ve seen neighbors helping neighbors. I’ve seen teachers find innovative ways to teach their students, parents find creative ways to entertain their children, people working from their homes – even with small children in tow. I’ve seen doctors, nurses, first responders, lab workers and others put their nose to the grindstone with passionate intensity. The sacrifices they are making are incredible. I am in awe.

 

I consider myself among the fortunate because I have a deep faith, a faith that God will walk with us through this fire; that he will eventually calm the storm. He’s done it all before. He loves us. He wants us to turn our lives over to him and trust him.

 

My neighbor Claudia Nease, who is also a former teacher of some of my kids, called me one night with an idea. Her daughter had read about another community hanging lights on the exterior of their homes, trees, shrubs or porches. The white lights signify the light of Christ and hope, symbolizing that we can see him even in the midst of troublesome times. I think it is a wonderful idea. I hope to see the city glow.

 

Thursday morning, Johnson Elementary Counselor Julie Fulks suggested another idea, placing colorful pictures - those of rainbows, flowers, sunshine and other signs of hope – in our windows. it will not only remind us that better days are ahead, but also serve as a message to those who may be walking or driving by our homes. She shared it with JES teachers and they shared with their students. Several have already placed bright pictures in their windows and doors. 

 

I love these ideas. I love that in the middle of chaos, people are focusing on the positive and trying to lift each other up.

 

I hope and pray you don't sink into darkness, but rather let your light shine, however that may be.