We must have a reason for being, and our work is at the core of it. – “Answers From Within” Chapter 2-Stop the World: I Want to Get Off!, Page 27 Book Link
Usually, I write about finding our gifts, talents, skills, and abilities, and using them to make a difference in the world. However, the Corona Virus epidemic and the quarantine it spawned is teaching us some deeper lessons about work and the role it plays in our lives.
There is no question our livelihoods are tied to our ability to work. We live in the world knowing generally that if we want to “eat” we have to work. It’s just common sense. When the quarantine required closing businesses many jobs were lost, and many of us panicked because we knew our ability to “eat” was at risk. But as time passed under the quarantine, it became clear something else was bothering us.
During the pandemic, I was talking to a friend who is a very talented hairstylist. She was concerned about the fact her business was closed and all the financial consequences. However, at the end of the conversation, she said something that made me think about how she felt about her work. She said she was looking forward to reopening so she could go back to doing what she is here to do. When she said it, there was almost a little sadness in her voice. Clearly, she was concerned because of the impact closing was having on her business, but there was more to it. She wasn’t able to do her thing, to be a contributor, and that also hurtful.
Many of us complain about our jobs or the work we do. Many of us are usually in the search for our ideal work, but the Covid-19 epidemic has sort of made us think about work a little differently. The circumstances kind of shine a light on the importance of having work of any kind so we can take care of our basic needs, and being grateful for that. It also shines a light on the fact that it is important to have work, any work, and to be a contributing part of society. Many people are facing challenges with work at this moment, but I believe many of us will have a new perspective of work that includes more respect and gratitude.
