Like many, I had the fortunate opportunity to have many wonderful and intellectual family and friends growing up – artists, architects, engineers, philosophers, who never seemed phased by the hardships in life. Though there may have been earth-shattering challenges they faced, it never showed. It was as if they floated over the threats and ugliness and persisted in their creative endeavors. It was my jolly Grandma, who painted this sign that I have kept by my bed, even today, and when I feel the world has become just a bit too crazy, I read the message and smile at her hand painted design that still glows with her sparkle.
The inner side of every cloud
Is ever bright and shining;
I therefore turn my clouds about,
And always wear them inside out
To show the silver lining.
So, what is the silver lining today, when lives have been re-adjusted by external forces not of our choosing, where we want to be thoughtful and concerned, but the restrictions seem too overbearing and stealing the freedom of choice? In just the last 8 weeks, people have been spending more time with their families, playing games, home schooling, baking bread they haven’t cooked in 20 years, walking around their neighborhoods, learning about natural solutions for immunity, reading books that had been collecting dust, even back to writing poetry. In businesses, many have learned new skills, developed new services, prioritized the protocols they are instituting to ensure their teams are safe and checking daily that all are well. And the teams are so eagerly sharing that care with the customers. Care has re-entered the workplace. Conversation has re-entered the home. Thoreau would be smiling to see that his mantra ‘Simplify’ has become acceptable and has led to rescue dogs and cats finding homes, clothing being donated to those in greater need. Neighbors helping neighbors.
Yes, Grandma, there is silver lining. I thank you for always turning your clouds inside out.
Gillian Christie
P.S. Please share your silver lining stories with us: gillian@christieand.co