After 9/11 here in NYC, one thing that kept my spirits up was the simple comfort from Mr. Rogers.
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news,” Rogers said to his television neighbors, “my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”
These days, as we join together around the television and radios and digital screens for update on the collective war we are waging against the viral pandemic– I think we all feel the heavy blanket of worry and concern. Being isolated from so many we love isn’t easy. Times are tough- there’s no wishing that away.
What I do find comforting though is that you do not have to look far for the helpers. There are so many stories of people helping one another- in great gestures and in small. Here in NYC- most people are of course keeping a safe social distance from one another- and that’s a little unsettling.
But do you know what I’ve noticed? As we pass each other, a safe 6 feet apart- people have begun to make eye contact with each other- to smile and nod hello- or, even say it out loud! “Stay safe!” “Have a god one” … that is almost unheard of in this city! No one talks to each other- and eye contact with strangers is usually a call sign of people who would do you harm.
Neighbors are looking in on each other- people are leaving little gifts for the delivery folks and mail carries, and, American Flags are flying on almost every home- regardless of political belief.
There is good in every day- and noticing it, documenting it is what helps keep us swimming against the current of concerns these days.
This is a season- this is not forever. And though we are distanced from each other- we are not alone. We are all in this together.
The story of your day today is not the formless CoVid19- it is written on the strong walls of your home. Life goes on around you- there is a story to be told beyond the statistics- it is one of your strength, of of your faith, one of the love you have around you, of the blessings that still fill your life.
Take a moment to tell those stories. In whatever medium you can- a layout, a photo, a journal, a notepad on your phone- a video clip you make each day.
I made this little gift for you to use as you’d like- maybe to help document the bright side of today. All I ask- is that you spread a little good news before you download it- leave a comment of one little (or big!) bit of something good you found in your day-
We could all use the smile!
[ just click on the image, your download will be automatic! ]
Hey Sue! I agree! Focus determines attitude for sure- and helping each other along only helps spread the awareness of how much positivity is out there to soak up!:) ! I geeked out watching the launch today too- it was just so mind blowing!
Thank you for the freebie, Renne. Those words are so helpful at this anxiety-ridden time in our lives when we need all the positivity we can get. Today I am grateful for time spent with DH & daughter watching the safe launch of the astronauts & wishing them a safe trip. I’m grateful that our lives give us this quiet time to be together, to hear the birds outside and to see the beautiful day we’ve been given.
What a beautiful picture you paint here- 🙂 Spring has a way of making hope and brighter days seem that much closer- thanks for sharing your happy place!
🙂 Yes! There are so many helpers- and it makes my heart lighter that you do not have to look far to find them!
I spent 3 hours working in the yard today and singing hymns to myself as I worked. It was a beautiful spring day – new green leaves just popping out on the trees, birds singing, and a light breeze carrying spring smells and keeping me from getting too hot. I got on my laptop when I came in and one of my kitties came to take a nap on my shoulder. She is snoring as I type this and her white fur is so soft and smells so good when I kiss her neck. I wish all those suffering because of the virus could feel the same comfort I feel now.
I am thankful when I find the helpers that Mr. Rogers taught us to look for. When I’m feeling discouraged I look for them. They are a sign that there is more good in the world than bad. Thank you for all you do to bring a little extra sunshine into our world.
YES! I whispered a prayer of thanks for the exact same things this morning. Truth told , I did wake up a little down, but when i listened to my morning news before i got out of bed- I turned and looked out the window and thought how very lucky I am to have what is around me at this very minute.- I have always told my kids that if the only prayer you whisper are tow words- “thank you”- I feel like that may be enough. These days, I find myself praying in that way very often. Be safe Margaret! xo!
You’re welcome for sure! It’s just a tiny thing- but I’m glad it made you smile. Downtime has been nice- especially when I turn off the news- it helps you tune out and tune in at the same time, right? Enjoy your time with Kitty- I think all the fur babies out there are loving the extra attention- and feeling how much we need their comfort as well! Stay safe- xo!
Gosh Margaret!! Please stay safe and know so many of us are praying for brave workers like you!! A sunny autumn day IS a perfect way to keep spirits bright- keep your face to the sun, right? 🙂 I’m thinking of you! Stay safe!! xo!
I LOVE seeing delight when I face time my family! I cant wait to HUG everyone tight!! I bet you miss seeing your granddaughter- but it;’s great you get to connect- be sure to grab screenshoots of that! 🙂 Stay safe!
Thank you Glenda! These ARE crazy times for sure! I have gotten VERY creative with beans and tortilla wraps! 🙂 Add cheese and everyone is VERY happy! But listen- this CAN NOT be forever- and when it IS all over- I will be having the BIGGEST Steak and Lobster grill fest my neighborhood has ever seen! 🙂 Stay safe!
Bev- that sounds like fun!! and you know what, that’s a terrific memory for sure! Sta safe and keep the smiles coming! 🙂
Fresh Veggies! That’s terrific! LOL! It’s funny the things that make us happy now! I was just saying, I dont go to the grocery saying, “we are going to have burgers tonight”- I now go, see what they have and work around that! 🙂 You have to keep looking for the bright side tho!
The sun is shining, the trees are blooming and leafing out. I am alive to see this new day. We have food to eat, and even some toilet paper! My family is healthy and in self isolation. I have a phone, email, and social media to talk to friends and family. I am so blessed!
I love your words here, they tug at my heart. I spent today lovin’ my cat and brushing her and having deep conversations with her.
It was the perfect pace for a lovely day of solitude. Thank you for the freebie, Renne!
Thanks for the freebie. We are in lockdown in New Zealand and I am just heading into work at Public Health to investigate and trace COVID cases. While we are all uncertain of what us going to happen in the next few weeks and beyond, waking to a bright, sunny autumnal day certainly cheers the mood and makes you feel more positive about life. Keep safe everyone and be kind. Kia kaha (stay strong).
My highlight today was doing some face time with my 7 year old granddaughter! It was so awesome when she heard my voice “Grandma!!!” It really is the little things that mean the most. I told her we can chat every day if she wants to now that we managed to get connected. I’m so used to seeing her so often, she is less then 5 minutes away from me.
Spring is in full swing here in the southern USA. Daughter is home and taking her classes online, including a Folk Dance PE class. She needs a partner, so I have been dancing with her twice a week in the kitchen. Swing Your Partner! I think you have a kit with in it…
Thank you so much for sharing the freebie! I hope you and your family are doing well! I have been observing the Stay-at-Home order in Oklahoma. When they started saying that the elderly need to stay home, I thought, “Oh my gosh, I AM elderly now!!! (70) That means ME!!!” What a shock! LOL! I should have documented my first trips to the store when the toilet paper rows were completely wiped out and then the meat counters were empty. I have never seen anything like this. I haven’t been scrapbooking much since the MOC ended, but that would give me something to scrap about! BTW, I love your designs! Be safe!
Thank you for the freebie! My DH and I went grocery shopping today, and we were pleasantly surprised. While there was no TP or hand sanitizer, just a few cartons of eggs, and bread was limited to 2 loaves, the produce aisle was well stocked with lovely fruit & veggies, even organic! We were thrilled. We were able to get everything from our list with the exception of an antibacterial soap that DH always uses. All in all, a good shopping experience. 🙂
I am notorious for organizing when things get tough LOL! That will be a fun project! I’m sorry about the Spring break trip- that sounds awesome- I hope you get a few great moments in at home- 🙂
YES!! Teachers are amazing for sure!! My big guy is in college- so he is pretty much flying solo with his lessons. The little guys needs me to be close by- I know he gets a little lonely- and it gets tedious. (work will have to slow down a bit for me while I help him guide through this) You always work magic with my designs Trish- I’m SO thankful for my teams’s creativity and support and love!
So beautifully said! You know that is something I try to live by- it’s tough sometimes- but sometimes you need to be really tough to keep soft 🙂
I think is IS important to tell the story we are living right now- and if a few little gifts can prompt that- then that makes ME happy to help get the stories flowing- (for me too!)
THAT is an amazing guy!
My daughter’s boyfriend is patient enough to sit on the phone while she reads her notes to him for a test today. (High school student taking college classes that switched to online. She’s a much better in person learner.)
Thank you for the freebie! It’s been wonderful that so many different designers have made free cards or such to share so we can all scrap these crazy times. It’s so therapeutic to document it and get your feelings out in some way. Can’t wait to see what everyone makes!
Thanks for the freebie. Some days we just have to create our own sunshine. It’s been gray and rainy here for the past week. Happy is a choice we make daily regardless of the circumstances. So let’s spread sunshine all around us with smiles and words of encouragement to those we encounter today.
My kiddos started their first day of online school today. As usual, it took me three times telling Tristan to get up, come eat your breakfast, brush your teeth and get online. Taylor was a breeze. he finished his homework in an hour (now I know why he never had homework before all this crazy) he is just too smart.. Taylor is still plugging away at hers, at least she doesn’t have swim practice and can get everything done today. I am so THANKFUL for all the amazing teachers that got this all together in a week. They deserve a million dollar salary for all they go through every year. Thank Renne for all your fabulous creative designs and this will brighten my layout today. Hope you are well and enjoying your kiddos.
Bummed that our Spring Break road trip is cancelled (National Parks in UT & AZ) but content to spend time at home with the family! Now to organize & clean my office/craft space!
A PUPPY!! My boys would go crazy for that!! That’s awesome! And YES! Getting outside for a tiny bit is important – I try and go really early before anyone is out or up here- and then take the little guy for a quick walk before we start “school”. It helps transition the day for him and me. 🙂
I am SO thankful for the sunny days- at least we can get outside & explore without feeling too stir crazy. Plus, we got a puppy- so she’s a great distraction right now!
These made me giggle- thank you!! I bet the kittys are thrilled lol!! I have been doing my yoga online- it IS very cool- and helps you stay connected and moving! I just signed up for Dinnerly- which one do you use Valerie?
something about the sunshine makes things seem better, doesn’t it? I tell my family- everyone needs to see a little blue and green every day 🙂 and yes! This will pass- we can do it!
it’s a beautiful, bright and sunny day outside…it’s a reminder that this bad time, too, shall pass!!
My niece is teaching Zumba online for her classes, she’s so awesome. My cats are super happy that they have a few more laps to sit in all day. I’m scrapping more even though I should be cleaning and such. I have a meal box and that’s been so great so I don’t have to shop for much groceries. Best news of all, we bought a new car with very little contact and my husband loves it. I’m enjoying bugging my husband with cat videos all day while he tries to work.