Endurance through Tragedy: Finding Joy During the Pandemic

The global outbreak of the coronavirus, known as COVID-19, brought with it a whirlwind of emotions and challenges. For me, as for so many others, it was a period marked by both profound distress and surprising moments of joy. As I look back, these were the things that brought the most happiness during the pandemic.

Life’s Sweetest Preciousness

Gratitude for Life

Life itself is what truly matters above all else. In the midst of the chaos, my family’s safety and health became my top priority. My father’s severe infection during the peak of the pandemic was a near-miss; he survived with the help of medication and a supportive family. I remain deeply thankful for the simple yet irreplaceable gift of life. It is something that no worldly treasure or pleasure can match.

Unyielding Faith

Religion and Trust

Throughout the pandemic, I held onto my faith. The Bible teaches us to walk in the fields and we will not be harmed; faith is the foundation of our beliefs. I continued to worship weekly in my church, even when others limited their attendance. Through it all, I felt a sense of safety and protection. Despite the challenges, I found solace in the church, which provided a sanctuary amidst the storm.

Seclusion and Reflection

Staying Apart from the World

Being isolated for an extended period during the pandemic brought its own set of challenges. The quietness often felt frustrating and lonely. However, it also provided a rare opportunity for introspection and spiritual growth. I found that the ability to be quiet and reflective allowed me to connect more deeply with God. Although I may be a slow learner, I am constantly striving to understand and communicate with Him better, and these moments are the most joyful for me.

Vaccination and Progress

Light at the End of the Tunnel

One of the most joyous moments was getting vaccinated. After being locked in my home for almost a year, the excitement and relief were palpable. The nurses and volunteers who administered the vaccines were filled with happiness and hope. It felt like a step towards a new beginning and a chance to reconnect with the world.

Since my vaccination, I have also discovered that my favorite local jazz bar, The Green Mill, has reopened. This is a significant joy, given that my city has faced continued lockdowns. The fact that my daughter, who had a mild case of COVID-19 and is now immune, plans to travel back to Chicago when the weather warms gives me even more happiness. This thought is the most joyful for me since the virus began spreading in America from Wuhan.

A Final Reflection

Reflecting on the past year, I am grateful for the moments of joy that occurred amidst the difficulties. Despite the challenges, I found comfort in my faith, the support of my family, and the hopeful signs of progress in the form of vaccine rollout and reopening of cherished places.

While the pandemic continues to present obstacles, it has also taught us the value of resilience, faith, and community. May these principles continue to guide us as we move forward into a brighter future.

Thank you for this opportunity to share my experiences and thoughts during this unprecedented time.