We go to sleep and wake in the morning to the COVID-19 death count. It seems never-ending. The virus does not discriminate. It will attack and kill ordinary citizens as well as well-known celebrities and world leaders. Like fire, it consumes anything in its path. So, what is the good that can come from this invisible monster?
A strange quiet
When we've gone for walks around the neighborhood, we've often owned the streets. Even with some things opening up, we often find ourselves not worrying about traffic or crowds. When we come upon another couple walking our way, we automatically spread out to avoid close quarters. No ill feelings. We wave politely and silently acknowledge that new rules apply. Even when we return to the good ol' days—you know, three or four months ago—we may never again step into someone else's body space—even by accident. We will be much more aware of boundaries.
If you live under a flight pattern of a busy airport, there are very few planes flying overhead. We've seen interstates turned into country roads, downtowns into ghost towns. We have recent memories of no horns honking, no one hailing a cab, no street vendors.
Life as we don't know it
Dad, no one's begging for the car keys. There's no squealing the tires or revving the engine in front of the gang hanging out at Mister Freeze. Mister Freeze has thawed. There is no gang. Saturday, nothing will change. Sunday, many church bells will remain silent and the pews empty. Every sporting event you find on TV will be a championship football game from two years ago or great moments in Olympic history.
So, what's a parent to do? How about enjoy the kids? Get to know them. Invite the tribe to eat dinner around the table. Play Monopoly. If you have a yard, toss the Frisbee back and forth. Dig out the ball and gloves and play catch. Call and check on grandma. When everyone is ready to rest, come together (but not too together) for a family discussion. Dad, you might want to get things started. What has this virus taught us about ourselves? How will we be when we're all back together.
Getting to know you … and them
When we have finally vanquished the virus, how will each of us be changed? Will we act differently toward others? Will we view the earth in a new or different way? Will we rethink our own dreams and aspirations? Has this experience changed our perception of a creator?
Dads, we hear from so many of you who wish you could go back in time and ask your parents questions. Your children will have those same regrets someday.
Today is a special gift. You have the opportunity to reveal yourself to your kids, to answer some of those questions in advance and help them get to know you better. And vice-versa.