Ain’t no Sunshine when She’s Home

Ain’t no sunshine when she’s home do, do, do…. Yes, you remember the song by Bill Withers (Ain’t No Sunshine When She’s Gone). Only this has a twist. My husband used to tease me by singing it all wrong when I was grumpy. That’s okay. I sing it right back now. 😊

And aren’t we all grumpier from isolating from COVID-19? Home is where you hang your hat, but we never need our hat anymore.

When we do venture out to the grocery store for those essential items, we don our mask. But worries rise when all those other people don’t have one on. That affects our safety.

Vaccines are now available. But technicalities of vaccinating millions has health departments and other entities scrambling for greater efficiency in the face of a daunting task.

Seniors want the injection, but may not have internet to sign up.

The end of COVID is hopefully in sight. But not yet.

Anticipation, impatience and boredom brew. And yes, perhaps some grumpiness.

Work Stress

Nurses suffer burnout as COVID numbers continue to rise.

Thankfully a coworker rewards me with some dark chocolate. The fix is temporary, but most appreciated.

Certainly some exercise to burn off a little steam would help. Can I squeeze in a brisk walk?

Yes, too much work and some employees out with a COVID positive quarantine of their own. With hopes the symptoms are mild.

My husband is a truck driver with similar scenarios. Two drivers out with COVID and worries that others may get it.

In the home health realm of nursing, patients complain they haven’t been getting out like they used to. They miss going to the store.

Already stressful jobs intensified by COVID-19.

…Ain’t no sunshine when we’re home, and we’re always home to long. COVID, COVID, COVID…

So how can we cope with this isolation and grumpiness?

Laughter Does a Body Good Like a Medicine

Have you tried laughter yoga? You just laugh out loud. Laughter Yoga groups exist to assist you in this simple yet effective exercise. Or you can do it by yourself. Laughter is contagious. Laughter begets laughter. Just try. LOL.

Yes, we may have to make our own sunshine in this difficult season.

Pray for the difficulties in our nation and for this pandemic be eradicated.

Call a friend. Remember those who can’t get out at all for whatever reason. Have a laugh with them.

So how are your coping with your grumpiness, or a loved ones less than amiable attitude during this difficult time in history?

Psalm 91 is particularly fitting for this pandemic. Pray the chapter.

Laugh.

Scriptures for Today

“A happy heart is good medicine and a joyful mind causes healing,
But a broken spirit dries up the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22 AMP).

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
Will remain secure and rest in the shadow of the Almighty [whose power no enemy can withstand]. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
My God, in whom I trust [with great confidence, and on whom I rely]!” 
For He will save you from the trap of the fowler,
And from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you and completely protect you with His pinions,
And under His wings you will find refuge;
His faithfulness is a shield and a wall.” (Psalm 91:1-4 AMP).

Prayer for Today

Father, we come to you today with dire needs for this nation and it’s peace and healing. We ask that you would touch hearts in high places. Give us happy hearts and help us to remember the simplicity of laughter in the midst of difficulty. Please keep us safe and healthy during this pandemic and heal those who have been infected by this silent disease. We praise you and thank you that you are with us and you will never, never leave us nor forsake us. Amen.

picture by Candice Picard via unsplash

Other publications by Nanette M. Holloway:

Coping Skills for Caregivers

Before You Depart: God’s Touch before Eternity

© 2020 Nanette M. Holloway-All Rights Reserved