So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the Lord had spoken to Moses. And Joshua gave it for an inheritance to Israel according to their tribal allotments. And the land had rest from war. Now these are the kings of the land whom the people of Israel defeated and took possession of their land

(Joshua 11:23; 12:1 ESV)

When we first emerge from a difficult time, it is challenging to have time to reflect on the good that was accomplished. Have you stopped and thought about what your organization gained during the COVID 19 pandemic? Or what you gained for your own nursing practice, did you gain a new skill, meet new colleagues, or find better solutions to consistent problems?

How about your personal faith, what spiritual growth did you experience?  Are you more trusting of the Lord, or have you found new confidence when challenges arise? Have you found a deeper peace or assured hope than what you felt prior to 2020?

A similar reflection can occur with regard to your family. Did the lockdown bring you closer to your loved ones and friends? I am reminded of a conversation I recently had with my granddaughter, who is 13 and spent an entire year in virtual school. We chatted about her academic struggles and depression. I asked her, “If the lockdown happens again, what will you do differently?”

Her first response was, “No way. NEVER again!”

I replied, “We hope and pray it won’t happen again, but what if it did? What would you do differently?” I then shared what I would do differently. This helped her look ahead and said, “I would get out of the house more and stay connected with my friends through Facetime.” I agreed with her plan and said, “We all need to stay more connected.”

Take some time to reflect on your successes during the pandemic—professionally, personally, and with your loved ones. Be sure to share your reflections so that we can grow as a community of nurses and believers.

“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God?  You are the God who works wonders;

you have made known your might among the peoples.” (Psalm 77:11-14, ESV)