“Social distancing”. That’s a phrase I never thought I would have to learn. I wonder if those words will end up in some type of new dictionary or phrase collection. The world may be tired of hearing the words, but this “social distancing” is vital to the safety and health of the world.
Alerts went out recently as a normal began to set in. People across nations have been told to stay at home unless specific needs are required. Just a few weeks ago, many areas were told to stop gathering in groups of 50 or more. Within days, the numbers changed to 20 or more. Then, 10 or more. Now, in some areas of the world, the authorities require people not to gather in groups of 3 or more. Who knows the next number?
During this social distancing at medical offices, grocery stores, and other businesses, the majority of people are trying to follow the rules. My husband and I have gone to the pharmacy for prescriptions. We have gone to the grocery store only when absolutely needed.
Boredom can set in quickly when staying inside. Anxiety and fear can take over as the unknown becomes the main focus of the day. Television and radio reports are depressing.
Yet, through all the sadness, sickness, death and despair, there are ways to find peace and calm. There are ways to help combat the bad news on every social platform.
I hope you find interesting things to do while “social distancing”. Here are a few suggestions.
- Pray first thing in the morning and continue praying all day.
- Take a walk in the neighborhood. Enjoy God’s creations.
- Read a story to a child. Read a story to an adult.
- Find paper and pen and create handwritten notes to mail to nursing homes.
- Decorate your driveway with sidewalk chalk. Draw hearts and smiles.
- Play along with the neighborhood game of “I’m going on a bear hunt…” Place a teddy bear in your window. Then, as you are taking your walks, count the bears in the windows of other homes.
- Play a card game. Go Fish, 52 Pickup
- Write a story. Everyone has a story to tell. Now’s the time to start writing/typing.
- Place a beach/lawn chair on the edge of your yard. Wave to people walking/driving by.
- Think of neighbors, friends and/or family who may need comforting. Offer to help.
This is a small list of things to do while “social distancing”. There are many other ways to cope with this situation. We need each other even while we are apart.
What can you add to the list? Share below and let’s help each other during this time of “social distancing”.
Melissa Henderson is a writer of inspirational messages. Her first book for children, “Licky the Lizard”, was released in 2018. She also has a story in the compilations “Heaven Sightings” and “Remembering Christmas”. She contributes articles and devotions to various magazines and websites. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. She and her husband Alan moved from Virginia to South Carolina to be near son, daughter-in-love and first grandchild. The family motto is “It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons”.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com
Defying Shadows 
What lovely ideas! I’ve been writing lots and whilst my husband is working at home, it’s great because when he’s working then so do I. Lovely post! Katie
Thank you. My husband is working from home, too. He is usually downstairs and my home office is upstairs. 🙂
That’s probably rather a good set up! We’re in an apartment on one level here, with a lovely view I must confess of the Hudson River and right over New Jersey, but all open plan! Perhaps I should hide in the bathroom or closet!!
Great suggestions to help us from being bored. I started a paint by number piece and some cross stitch to fill some of my time beside writing. Thanks Melissa.
I loved doing cross stitch years ago. I still have some of my creations. Painting by number sounds like a great idea. 🙂
Great list, Melissa. I like the one about writing cards to people in nursing homes.
Thank you Karen. My Mama lived in a nursing home the last few years of her life. She loved receiving mail.
What a lovely way to reframe our thoughts and focus during this trying time. I loved your ideas, Melissa! So simple and yet so beautiful! I have been writing some handwritten notes to loved ones to let them know we are praying for them. It is small, but such a joy. Thank you for this encouraging post!
Thank you Melissa. Handwritten notes are very special. 🙂
I love this one you mention: Play along with the neighborhood game of “I’m going on a bear hunt…” Place a teddy bear in your window. Then, as you are taking your walks, count the bears in the windows of other homes.
I loved the book this phrase came from.
I am doing much of what you have suggested. One thing that I’m doing is talking to more and more people one-on-one through Zoom calls and phone. These times with people are special and intentional. Interestingly, social distancing seems to be drawing people closer.
Isn’t it odd, this world we now inhabit! Doubtless our ancestors one hundred years ago felt the same in their pandemic. Our blessing, is that our doctors know so much more about virology and how to prevent disease. I quit watching the news updates. I only watch once a week. Primarily, I listen to Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx. Hearing it constantly was too dismal – I agree. I’ve been exercising more regularly and taking better care of my body. I’ve also been trying to sit outside each day, to enjoy the change in season, the watch the animals, the lizard, and the growing plants.That refreshes me and reminds me of the Creator of all of that beauty. God bless you, sister! Stay safe!
I love how you are enjoying nature, especially the lizard. haha! God’s creations can truly bring peace and comfort.
It is so important to find things that distract us and bring us joy and contentment during this unsettled time. Prayer in the morning is critical for us to find peace and to rest the day in God’s caring and compassionate hands. And of course, engaging in our writing and projects are wonderful activities. And every day we get outside to walk so that we breathe in the fresh air, have an outing and experience the beauty of God’s Creation. Hope you and your family are all doing well.
I agree with you Anne. Prayer in the morning is important. Prayer sets the tone for the day. 🙂 Our family is well. Praying for you and your family, too. Have a blessed week! 🙂
I hope you and your husband are well. Social distancing for me is different, but also the same. I work full days, even longer days, but at home 4 of 5 days/week. It’s probably harder for my wife and youngest who are downstairs all day working and doing homework and other things. I hole up in the room upstairs. Someday this will end and we will feel strange being out in society. And there will be long lines at the barber shops!
Thanks for these ideas! I’ve been getting crafty with my kids. I used to always have to say “if there’s time… when there’s time…” for things like fun crafts. Now, we have time, and that’s the silver lining I’m clinging to. Yesterday, we made sock puppets for the first time.