Viktor Frankl’s quote, “When we are no longer able to change a situation – we are challenged to change ourselves,” struck a chord with me today, especially in light of the global pandemic. In 2020, COVID-19 wasn’t something we could control. It forced a rapid and dramatic change upon us – how we worked, interacted, grieved, and even loved. Our fundamental sense of safety, both physical and emotional, was shattered.
This was traumatic. And yet, we’re expected to “get back to normal.” But is there even a “normal” to return to? The truth is, we changed. We couldn’t avoid it. The experience transformed us. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a traumatic experience for everyone. We’ve all had to deal with uncertainty and loss, and knowing how to respond has been challenging.
As a result, many of us have been trying to push down our feelings and pretend that everything is okay. But the truth is, we’re not OK. Our sense of safety has been compromised, which makes it difficult to build the loving communities we crave. Fear can make us hesitant to connect with others, even though connection is a vital human need.
Finding Meaning in the Chaos
Frankl reminds us that we can find significance and purpose even in adversity. The emotions we’re experiencing are valid. We can choose to heal individually, but collective healing also has immense power. So many lives were lost, and we owe it to ourselves, our loved ones, and the future to do better.
This starts with open communication. Talking about our feelings, anxieties, and fears can pave the way for collective healing. Imagine a world where we can have honest conversations about COVID-19’s impact, fostering empathy and understanding.
COVID forced us to a standstill. But maybe this stillness can be a catalyst for change. Maybe by sharing our experiences, we can rewrite the narrative. Let’s move beyond pretending everything is fine and embrace the opportunity for collective healing.
Let’s talk, let’s listen, let’s support each other, and let’s build a future where safety and connection go hand in hand. This call is, ultimately, about your well-being and the well-being of everyone around you. It’s about creating a world where Viktor Frankl’s quote becomes a reminder and a celebration of our collective resilience.
