South Africa went into lockdown in March and we welcomed the decision in an effort to flatten the curve of COVID 19 infections. In the early, I was excited to spend uninterrupted time with my family and do things we hardly get to do. We got to do chores, learn new skills, communicate deeply, and just spend time doing nothing. We have now progressed to level 4 of lockdown and while I was baking my daughter’s birthday cake, I suddenly realized that perhaps all the time I thought I was busy, I was busy with unimportant things disguised as important. Routine and being on autopilot mode of everyday life, got me thinking that I don’t have time to do other activities like baking a birthday cake? I must tell you, the cake tasted amazing and we have made a decision as a family that we will bake birthday cakes for all of us going forward.
As a family, we have realized the pleasure of immersing ourselves in small acts of love. Our personalities and capabilities have been expanded in surprising ways. As a mom, my heart is so full to see my children appreciate the effort we put together as a family to make this difficult time into a memorable time ever.
Whilst some have the privilege to be at home, working, studying, other people are not as privileged and it is the reality of the situation. As a nation, we are coming together to help in any way we can. Life is not normal anymore and we are being stretched as human beings, for the first time in history, we are not in control or free to do as we please.
In the mornings I spend quite a time reading the word of God and today I was reading from the First 5 app, one sentence stood out for me that says: “The temple is to be built in a place known for sacrifice and mercy, for refinement and redemption“. I immediately realized how during this uncertain time we are being refined, whether we are aware or not. We are all sacrificing things, and by sacrificing we are learning to let go and to surrender and trust. There is a purpose to this season, yes it is difficult and we are losing loved ones in the process, but there is a higher purpose and greater good. Take each day as it comes and trust in the highest power.
So go ahead and bake that delicious chocolate cake and savour the little pleasures around you.
