A New Normal

Happiness is only elusive when you pursue it.

During the pandemic, for the first time in three generations, fathers found themselves at home spending daylight hours with their children, who in ore-COVID times, would have been at school. Families cooked together, ate together and shared time in front of the TV. Fathers who invested time in meaningful relationships with their spouse and offspring, siblings, and parents found an overall sense of satisfaction. In many instances, less time with business acquaintances led those working from home to spend more quality time (alas virtual) with friends.

Experiencing the pandemic forced families to recalibrate how to allocate their time. The misery was shared, making it easier to shoulder. Proximity also fostered times of joy and accomplishment.

Masking, distancing, and the inconvenience caused by lockdowns were universal. Social competition, scoring, and judging visible in public activities, such as children’s sports, were interrupted.

The shared suffering and painful loss of millions of souls worldwide reminds us to focus on the present, savor time, and live in the moment.

As the threat lessens and our lives return to a new normal, consider retaining a bit of a “pandemic mindset.” Recall the early days of fear and confusion, the shocking reminder of our mortality and of huddling together, relying on dad to stand strong. He remains on guard, and we should be grateful.

Remember, the new normal is what you make it to be.