I’ve seen a lot of negative these days. And it’s easy to find, considering all that is going on in our world. News, social media, even in the stores there’s evidence of a changed world.

But, we can still choose what we focus on. Think about that for a moment. You get to choose. You choose if you read every news article about the virus. You choose how many times you check social media each day. You choose what you see.

I’m not saying that it’s easy to choose differently. It’s not. But it is possible.

These last couple weeks I have been doing my part in choosing to see the good. I’ve been working hard at looking at what God is doing in the midst of the storm. I’ve been trying to find the positive. Why? Because it’s healthy. It’s good for my mind and body and spirit.

I’ve seen people put aside all sorts of differences to help others. In a two hour time frame 500,000 Minnesotans stepped up to sign up to be a helper to others in this time of crisis. Two hours. They set aside religious, political, social differences, just to be there for others.

I’ve seen people downtown and in the parks walking, observing physical distancing and yet still chatting. Enjoying company, nature, spring, and health.

I’ve seen good in my own home. My kids have been stuck with each other. And it’s been a good thing. They have been making up the craziest games together. Make believe, forts, games, movies. They snuggle up together on the couch. They run around the yard with sticks. They are just enjoying life…together. They are making memories they’ll never forget.

“Remember that spring when we all had to stay home? Remember when we made up this game? Remember that fort in the barn?”

Of course, I’ll probably remember my house being consistently destroyed!

Think about what God is doing for families right now. Family dinner is kind of a must these days. I pray it’s bringing families closer together and I pray we’re changed in a good, lasting way from this. I also pray for broken and hurting families and for those out of work. I know this isn’t an easy time for anyone.

Another blessing I’ve found, is we can just relax. We get our schooling done in a relaxed schedule, without so much structure. We play together and explore together. We’ve been out hiking the parks around here often and there is nothing like being out in the trees, hearing the water running in the rivers and down the waterfalls. It’s soothing, healing, calming. I encourage you to get out walking in the woods.

We’ve also been able to begin a huge project in our home. We have two boys about to graduate high school and begin college. They’ve both chosen a two year college near by and are wisely staying home and commuting to save money. So, we’ve been rearranging bedrooms so they can each have their own room. I’m excited to share the finished project with you all soon!

We’ve also been able to begin a huge project in our home. We have two boys about to graduate high school and begin college. They’ve both chosen a two year college near by and are wisely staying home and commuting to save money. So, we’ve been rearranging bedrooms so they can each have their own room. I’m excited to share the finished project with you all soon!

Years ago, when I was suffering severe depression, my therapist encouraged me to write down three things I was thankful for everyday. I did it for months. And, it totally changed my mindset. It’s still changed to this day. I can look at a situation and fairly quickly find the silver lining, the beautiful in the hard, the blessings in the storm. I would encourage you to do it! It truly makes a difference.

In the midst of this storm, look for the blessings. Look for those helping. Look for how you can help. Look for the good. It’s there.