Reflecting on the Past Year
Megan Clark, M.A., LCMHCA
Right at the one-year mark of pandemic life, I began to find myself entering a reflective period. Perhaps you did, too. I suddenly began to pay special attention to all the headlines in my news feed about the effects of the pandemic on various populations and it led me to wonder… How has the pandemic affected me? My family? The clients I serve? Will we ever be the same? Will my children ever be able to relax in a crowd again? Will I? Will the extreme anxiety I see in some clients ever abate?
I have certainly seen more people reaching out for counseling services than I have ever experienced before and I know that is largely due to the pandemic and its effects. I think it is safe to say we can expect the effects of the pandemic to continue to play out in mental health spheres over the years to come. At the same time, I believe it is less about what we go through that culminates in growth versus trauma, but how we reflect on it. One of the ways God speaks to us is through the events in our lives, but it is rare (because it is hard) for us to slow down and examine our lives in order to listen. So today, let’s see if we can slow down in order to do a little reflecting on this last year or so of pandemic life together. Let’s see if we can make sense of how God may be at work in our lives to shape us and grow us even in the midst of tragedy and trial. “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Consider finding a comfortable chair in a quiet place to sit and reflect. Maybe light a candle and allow your eyes to close as you remember and ponder. Questions for reflection:
Looking back on the last year or so, what have I learned about myself? What have I experienced of God? For example, maybe I have learned I am more anxious than I realized or that I worry unnecessarily. Maybe I have learned that God is able to help me adapt in ways I never could have anticipated or asked for.
Looking back over the last year or so, what has drained me? What has given me life? For example, maybe too many Zoom meetings or too much time alone has drained me. Maybe more time with my family or more down time has given me life.
What do I want to carry forward with me into the new normal? For example, maybe a slower pace in life, more time at home or more time with loved ones.
We hope that as you reflect, you will experience more perspective on the pandemic and your own growth, resources, and strengths. If you are still struggling, you are not alone. We at Sanctuary are always here if you need us.
