June 2020 Monthly Letter
Dear ORM Reconcilers,
It has been another month of sheltering in place. I am blessed that after 52 years of marriage, Jannice and I still enjoy being together. She admits that she does miss having the house to herself once or twice a week. We are still doing fine health-wise, and hope that you and your families are well.
One of our friends mentioned that since he had to be home, he thought he would tackle some projects and read a few books. However, he confessed that most days he just feels too exhausted to do anything. I feel that way some days and maybe you do also.
On the nightly news broadcast we are told that after this pandemic is over we will need to hit the reset button and learn to adjust to our new normal.
I surveyed a few of my friends to find out what they would like to see become a part of the new normal. Here are a few things they would like to see continue:
- People feeling comfortable around people again and being able to give hugs.
- Leaders making more responsible decisions.
- Being able to continue sharing about God.
- Keeping the stimulus checks coming for a while.
- Cleaning the shopping cart before going into the store, and practicing social distancing.
- Living a slower pace after the virus without running all over the place.
- Enjoying being together with a lot of people, helping others, and hopefully living in a less-polarized world.
- Being able to attend a normal Church service again.
I love talking to people and finding out what they are thinking!
We all have been inspired by the many acts of kindness around us. We’ve heard about the teenagers who started a non-profit organization to shop for senior citizens. Each day we pay tribute to our frontline workers. We want this to last in our new normal, continuing to show appreciation to the people who are on the front line serving us.
It saddens me, and I am sure you as well, to hear that domestic violence, suicides and institutional racism are up as we fight this pandemic. It shows we still have a lot of work to do.
God tells us in Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
And we read these comforting words in 2 Thessalonians 3:16: “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”
As reconcilers, let’s continue to live our lives in ways that inspire others to change and live a better life.
Thank you all for your support as we go to this difficult time. God bless you and keep you and your families safe.
