A Blessing in Disguise
My wife and I awoke and prepared for our day, as normal, and then the text came: the campus was closed.
What do we do now?
Our work-life was turned upside down. Our day-to day-conversations turned virtual. We lost contact with our peers and coworkers. At first glance, we lost a lot. But with time, perspectives change.
In our normal 8-5 we would drop our son, Aiden, off at daycare and rush to our offices to get our workday underway.
These days, things are different.
Instead of rushing out the door, we sit down as a family for breakfast, some coloring time, and a little outside playtime. Coming inside to start our workday, we alternate between our Zoom meetings, writing emails, getting our daily tasks accomplished, and taking care of Aiden’s needs. Our breaks have switched. A conversation over coffee with a colleague is now playtime with my little boy.
Day in and day out, we are fortunate to spend extra time watching Aiden grow and learn. We have the opportunity to share three meals a day together, take walks around the neighborhood, and share extra cuddles at nap time. Even if it means more laundry, more dishes, and more changing dirty diapers, this time is precious and irreplaceable; this time is a blessing.
Our lives shifted when this pandemic started. We lost some things. But looking past those losses, it is clear how much we have gained.
Michael Franson
Student Affairs Coordinator
Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences