Run from it?

A few days ago I've been given my barcodes that allow me to participate in the UK Parkrun London. I was happy! I have discovered the running events last October when being in London, and I think they are an incredible way to increase fitness levels, to connect people, to bring a nation together. Now it looks like I might not partake this April. A virus has infected the world, and now we are committed to exercise care.

Although nothing has been cancelled yet by the organisation, the realisation that I might not be able to enter the running event made me sad for a moment. But, is this the time to be selfish? No, of course not.

This morning the government in Germany ordered to shut down all schools and kindergartens for nearly six weeks. Most companies that have the opportunities let their employees work from home. Grocery and store shelves are empty, people even fight for the last package of lavatory paper or disinfectants.

I think many of you agree with me that we can honestly say most of us have never been in a predicament such as this in our entire life. I also believe we can agree on not being all that comfortable with the situation.

I want to say I am not especially afraid of meeting the Coronavirus, but it makes me aware of how delicate and vulnerable our world's state and quality of being connected together actually is. Situations like this demonstrate how weak we are in the face of unpredictability. A virus has the power to highlight our problems as a global society and to question our humanity and thoughtfulness.

Once a nations daily and mostly untroubled life comes to a halt, things not spent much thinking of, things taken for granted, start to look very different from one moment to the next. Suddenly we see that all of us, really all of us, have a very long way to go to make our world a better place and in consequence to make us better people.

So, what can we do now? What can we do to overcome a situation that sees us helpless and worried about the unknown? First and foremost, try to stay positive, and never abandon hope. It is always in the midst of chaos and suffering that we can make the most significant changes. Even in this cases of bewilderment, uncertainty, and fear please look for the lessons it teaches us.

Can it be, then, that now that we have to think about sufficient food supply, we finally go back to basics and take for ourselves only what we need, let others have their share as well, and because of more responsibility waste less?

Can it be, then, that we, like a most needed clear- out, as the global community that we are will achieve more clarity and concentration on what works for our world and what does not? And will it finally guide us to put our strength and energy  into what works for the big picture, for the good of all?

Can it be, then, that now in the light of illness and contagiousness we will remember what is really important in life? Will it make us understand how much we depend on each other, how precious life is, how much love we need to hold each other and not only to come out of this as less unscathed as possible?

In times like this when the world becomes silent let us carry on with our gifts, with our mission, with smiling at each other, let us live our best lives. While we do this let us check on those around us who need our help and support physically and emotionally. Hold a place and make room in your heart for those who are struggeling by seeing for balance and calmness in your personal life. Our actions, our attitude, our gratefulness, our behaviour will be the chance. Even a tiny  change of thinking in the right directions will have a massive impact nationwide. Our personal way of handling this is where our freedom lies.

Do not be afraid.
Stay safe.
Take care.
Look after each other.
We need you to be strong.

All the best for you, Ute.