Although this year began pretty much as any other year, things spiraled downward quickly. We watched the news and knew that China had a new virus problem on their hands, but little did we know what would happen when COVID 19 arrived in our country.

When the virus entered the United States, we still didn't concern ourselves, but our views changed when officials said it arrived in our area. Most all of us were highly concerned for our health and the health of others when Governor DeWine closed down our state, and we gladly secluded ourselves inside our homes. If you went for a drive late March through April, you just about owned the street. Hardly anyone was on the road. People stayed inside and away from others.

Later, as we began going back to work and trying to get back to normal, we learned that normal was not possible. We had (and still have) government officials telling us to get accustomed to this "new" way of life.

The reality of the virus first affected those with health issues. If your loved one had to go to the hospital, you were not allowed in with them. If any family member had a surgery, you had to sit in the car and wait. If they had to stay in the hospital overnight or for a more extended period, you could not visit them.

It got worse. If your loved one was dying, you were not permitted with them to give comfort as they passed. Just the thought of someone dying alone cut deeply into our hearts. You couldn't visit your elderly parent in the nursing home, and many in those facilities died without family with them. We've all seen pictures or videos of an elderly parent on one side of a window and their children and grandchildren on the outside with their hearts tearing in-two as they all touched the glass. It was a painful attempt to feel each other's love. This all became heart-wrenching to watch, let alone experience.

Now, the state and stores strongly recommend masks. The government tells us this way of life will continue for a long, long time – at least until the pharmaceutical industry comes up with a vaccine. While many of us debate whether this is a political issue in an election year or if the virus is as harmful as they say, one thing we know, for right now, we have to live with this reality.

We've all heard people say they’re ready for 2020 to end, and they have high hopes and expectations for the coming year. Maybe you’ve said that. But the reality is that we still have a couple of months remaining this year. What will you do with them?

Please understand, I’ve had my own bouts of mild depression this year. Social distancing is challenging at times, and haven't we all wondered how many people have committed suicide because of the social atmosphere – or lack thereof? This year has been challenging for many, and it has undoubtedly played on our minds. But whatever comes of your November and December rests within your mind. How will you handle the remainder of 2020 and the beginning of 2021? What is your outlook?  

We have two significant seasons coming, and even though they happen simultaneously, they can produce vastly different results. First, we currently have the autumn season upon us, and we’ll soon enter winter. Autumn is beautiful as the leaves turn, and the landscape becomes a brilliant and colorful painting. But soon, the cold winds of winter will blow, snow will fall from the sky and will pile up on the ground. For many, this season brings exciting fun and enjoyment as the cold temperatures bite at their cheeks and nose.  

And the other season? It’s the holiday season. As October passes and November arrives, we turn our sights toward Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year. It’s such a joyful season too. There are family gatherings and delicious meals. There’s shopping to do; presents to wrap; parties to attend; and much, much more. Both the weather and the holidays bring excitement to many.

Sadly, the government tells us this will not be a typical holiday season. Many people go through depression as they face Thanksgiving and Christ alone. Those two most fun holidays often bring back memories of loved ones who have passed. Loneliness sets in on these lone survivors. Plus, many face the difficulty in getting out of the house, and people are concerned about COVID 19.  These problems create the recipe for a long spiral into depression.  

How will you handle the remaining two months this year? Will you get through the winter with a positive outlook? If you are already looking toward next year with high expectations that it will turn out much better than this one, that’s okay, but let’s not forget the remainder of 2020. We still have so much living to do this year. 

Start planning the holiday season now and look forward to appreciating those loved ones that show up. Normal seasonal illnesses will certainly keep some away from our family gatherings, and, unless something changes quickly, a few of our loved ones will likely stay home for the holidays because they are concerned about COVID 19. Let’s not shame them or make them feel guilty. Let’s work through the coming season as best as possible and respect everyone’s views.

In the springtime, flowers pop out of the ground, the landscape turns green, and animals come to life and reproduce. The summer brings more growth, fun in the sun, and joyful vacations. Autumn ushers in the harvest and cooler weather as the landscape changes to dazzling colors before the leaves fall to the ground. Finally, winter results in a time of rest as the landscape turns barren, and it silently prepares for another spring. 

Every season brings challenges, but it also brings changes that we can enjoy. How we face these changes and challenges is our individual choice. Let’s keep this proverb from the Bible in mind.

A cheerful heart is good medicine,

but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

-Proverbs 17:22

How will you face the remaining two months of 2020? Hopefully, you’ll have lots of joy with a great big smile on your face. Let’s enjoy the rest of the year with cheerful hearts.

We will survive. Let’s make the best of the rest of 2020. 

Love you & God Bless,

Kenny