Just bringing up the word COVID causes an immediate reaction. COVID sparked such darkness. Some of us lost loved ones to COVID. I did, and my heart goes out to you if you did too. Besides the obvious effects of the illness itself, there were a lot of secondary issues. Shutdowns, social distancing, job losses, medical shortages, businesses lost, services suspended, schools closed, suicides and mental health challenges increased, and shortages of basic needs to name a few. So much fear, uncertainty, and rage arose. Some of the ugliness (or dark side) of human nature rose to the surface and came out in such destructive ways.

Yet, these very dark things created so much awareness. These issues became “front and center” creating a cascade of changes for the better-a light side. Individually and corporately, we began to get creative bringing forth some of the best of humanity through love, compassion and caring. Mental health was pushed forward. The failure in all kinds of systems had to be looked at and responded to. The way services were delivered began to change; a host of online services and supports sprung up that did not exist before. Classes and support services could be obtained in new ways. All kinds of free phone support lines multiplied allowing people access to help that was not available before. Mother Earth got a reprieve from emissions of pollutants. New kinds of jobs were created, and businesses restructured due to the awarenesses that presented themselves. Individuals took more responsibility for themselves and/or their families and did “restructuring” of their own-both inner and outer. People, in general, became clearer about what really mattered, and how they wanted to live their lives. Individuals and organizations became more altruistic.

No one was untouched. The effects are still being felt. COVID only appeared in deep darkness at first-but did not end with darkness. Light sprung forth in various ways on many levels. We go through so much in life. As we embark on our healing recovery journeys, we do experience those times that feel only dark. COVID is an example to everyone of the darkness we sometimes find ourselves in. But the darkness is NOT the end. Light comes to us all! Awareness creates hope-and our lives shift, and the light we experience might be brighter than ever expected!

Cheri Thomas

Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist for RI in Arizona. She has experienced loss and grief which has led her to write for the masses to bring voice to those in similar situations. Cheri possesses a deep passion to share with, encourage, and inspire others on what she calls the Journey of the Heart.