Several years ago I wrote an article for my newspaper column with the same title as this blog.  

At the time, I was convalescing from bilateral knee surgery and feeling that both of these words applied to me. 

After weeks of “social distancing” (hey, isn’t that a misnomer – shouldn’t it be “anti-social distancing”?) I’m beginning to feel that way again. 

Not only does being quasi-quarantined make me feel like an in-va-lid (noun – a person made weak or disabled by injury or illness), the lack of meaningful interaction with others is beginning to drain my store of well being and I sometimes feel downright in-val-id (adjective – not important or significant). 

For clarification’s sake, I would like to share the entry for “quarantine” from my desktop dictionary: a state, period, or place of isolation in which people or animals that have arrived from elsewhere or been exposed to infectious or contagious disease are placed: (ex.) many animals die in quarantine. I suggest replacing that example of usage with a more positive illustration, such as: During the quarantine she realized how lovely it is to be alone. But then, I suppose the paradigm should be true. Just in case you are wondering, “quarantine” comes from the Italian “quarantine” meaning “forty days” and was first used in 14^th-15^th century during the Black Death plague epidemic. 

Truly, I know our current situation in no way can began to compare to many historical episodes or even more current devastations that have transpired around the world. In America, we still have much to be grateful for: food, shelter, medical care, law enforcement, and of course that elusive toilet paper. We could be in much worse shape – as many people are around the world on a daily basis. Consider this statistic: every minute of every day, approximately 15 people worldwide die of starvation. Some research suggests even higher numbers.

Still, America is facing uncharted territory and dealing with Corona is taking a toll. In some areas, the rate of suicide is surpassing the number of deaths from Corona.

Serving as a caregiver – always a challenging role – is even more so now. All family caregivers should be thankful that they chose to keep their loved one at home. I cannot even imagine the emotional strain being experienced by those who have loved ones in a nursing facility. Not being able to visit…the high death rate…wondering about the care the residents are receiving from a depleted and over-worked staff. That has got to weigh heavy on family members. I read one article that noted some families are taking their loved ones home. Good for them.

Having a grateful heart can be the first step in dealing with difficult times. Let your recipient know how glad you are to have him/her your care. Enjoy each other’s company. Pray together.

During this time, you may be taking care of an in-va-lid and may sometimes feel like one yourself. But remember that neither of you are in-val-id. Both of you are of great worth to your Creator. Continue to trust in Him and He will care for you. (I Peter 5:7)

Caring Quote: That which separates us from other comforts, should drive us nearer to God, the Fountain of all comfort.”  Matthew Henry