Forging family bonds through uncertain times

“When they’ve finished reading, Olivia’s mother gives her a kiss and says, ‘You know, you really wear me out. But I love you anyway."

In these trying times, it’s challenging to find balance, especially for those caring for children. Laundry must be done, mouths must be fed, children must be entertained, work must be completed, and so on.

As I enter Week 3 of social distancing, I’ve noticed that:

1)   I’m glad I don’t have to wear makeup 

2)   I enjoy working in pajamas from my living room

3)   I’m watching people come together like never before

4)   I’m finding it difficult to juggle my responsibilities

The first two observations, of course, are givens (for most). The third has blown me away. As co-founder of Hindi’s Libraries (a book collection and donation group), I encourage people to see that we’re all able to make a difference. Over the last few weeks, I’ve watched the world come together to do good. Some are collecting face masks, others are asking for emailed drawings to be shared with healthcare workers, and many are fundraising to send meals to those on the front lines. Though confined to our homes, we’re finding ways to help those in need, and  that  is inspiring.

 The last item seems to be common for many. My family’s first week in quarantine was scheduled from the time we woke up until the minute we said good night. Then a friend sent a message which reminded me about the importance of perspective. While we as adults see this as a time of uncertainty and anxiety, our children are soaking in the extra family time.

They’ll remember playing board games around the table, making a human Hungry Hungry Hippo game, going on rainbow scavenger hunts in their neighborhoods and experimenting with flour to make puffy sidewalk chalk. So, while I find myself exhausted by the end of each day, I try to remember that, for my children,  these  are the days they will look back on fondly.

And Olivia gives her a kiss back and says, ‘I love you anyway too.’’’ 

— Olivia by Ian Falconer