Grief & Gratitude

As I dictate this week’s column to be read around the world in newspapers, magazines, and in online publications, I am very aware of the fact that, for more than a year, we have all been collectively facing a devastating pandemic.  First and foremost, may we never forget those who have lost their lives to this deadly disease.  Their families, friends, and colleagues should remain in our thoughts and prayers, and we should all do everything in our power to support those who have suffered the ultimate loss.  Beyond the tragic global loss of life, many fortunes have been devastated, businesses ruined, and dreams shattered.  Those of us who have been blessed to come through the pandemic relatively unscathed need to remember those who have been far less fortunate than we have been. 

 Sir Winston Churchill has been quoted as saying, “Never let a good crisis go to waste.”  Many political figures and thought leaders have expressed this sentiment in their own words throughout the years.  Part of the tribute we can give to so many people around the world who have suffered through this difficult time, is to learn from the experience and commit ourselves to being better in the future. 

 One of the lasting legacies from my grandmother is a daily practice of expressing gratitude through a process she called The Golden List.  This is simply the habit of being mindful of people, things, and circumstances for which you are thankful each and every day. 

 In the midst of the death, destruction, and tragedy, we are still left with many things worthy of gratitude.  As we are offered the opportunity to be vaccinated as a way to avoid the ravages of the virus, may we never forget that some of the most talented and dedicated scientists around the world came together in an unprecedented way to create vaccines in a heretofore unimaginable short period of time.

 We must also be grateful for the frontline healthcare workers who have risked their lives and health to treat those suffering with the virus during this pandemic.  Also, we must be grateful for those among us who have stood in the gap to keep us safe, fed, and as comfortable as humanly possible during this crisis. 

 Now that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, we must remember that we are not going back to the way things were, nor accepting the way things are; but instead, we are creating the way things will be.  We must always remember where we have been and what has been lost as we grapple with where we are and look forward to making tomorrow a better day.

 As you go through your day today, be open to both grief and gratitude.

 Today’s the day!