We are living through challenging times. Bad news clings like pollen in my sinuses. There is much to be concerned with during this crisis. But perspective is important in maintaining emotional stability and strength for yourself and your families.
I remember stories from my mother’s mother who described times in Russia before she managed to escape to this country. She survived pogroms and countless attacks that left her family and village shredded.
I remember stories from my father’s mother of The Great Depression. Food and shelter were her prime concerns to care for her three sons. They moved from apartment to apartment wherever she could find a cheaper apartment with a free month’s rent. She knew deprivation.
I heard stories from my parents of times during World War II, with rationing and limited supplies that made life very difficult.
Our collective histories hold stories of hardship, deprivation and danger.
We must use the strength of our ancestors and their sacrifices to forge our way forward and support ourselves and others. It is the job of elders to pass on wisdom and model behavior for others.
We will get through this—together!
