By Katie Beckmann Mahon, Communications Manager
This week’s “Embracing Faith” article will focus on Embracing Faith through Reflection.
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” -1 Corinthians 16:13
Over the past few weeks, I have spent time reflecting on how Coronavirus has changed the world.
So many of us have suffered a significant loss due to this pandemic.
While countless amounts of people have been diagnosed with Coronavirus, others have had loved ones pass away from this terrible disease. Unemployment has reached record high numbers, and it feels as if we are light years away from the booming economy we once had.
Circumstances like these make it easy to question your faith and let negative thoughts overtake you.
Personally, I have tried to focus on the gift of life and how important my family and friends are to me.
In March, my good friend, Morgan, was diagnosed with Coronavirus.
When I first heard the news, it was incredibly frightening as I knew Morgan was severely sick, and I had thought that people in their thirties had less of a chance of getting Coronavirus.
Thankfully, as I write this reflection, Morgan has beaten Coronavirus and even has donated antibodies for research purposes.
Over Memorial Day Weekend, I spoke with her about Coronavirus, what she experienced during her isolation time of over a month, and the role her faith played in it.
· Q: What went through your mind when you found out you were diagnosed with Coronavirus?
· A: I was relieved to know what was finally wrong with me, but also I was so terrified of the unknown. I had no idea how much worse I may end up getting. I was afraid to end up in the hospital. I was also very worried about my grandmother because we live in the same home. It was very scary.
· Q: What did you do to keep yourself occupied during isolation?
· A: At first, I was too sick to do anything. When I felt well enough to do so, I listened to audiobooks, watched television, and listened to music.
· Q: What did prayer mean to you during isolation?
· A: I prayed everyday. My grandmother would pray with me, and also had her Bible Study Group pray for me.
· Q: Since you have officially beaten Coronavirus, do you think you have changed as a person?
· A: This has changed me as a person. I have so much more anxiety now. I am very nervous and worried about getting it again. Since I don’t know what the future holds, I continue to pray.
· Q: If you could give one piece of advice to someone who is struggling with Coronavirus now, what would it be?
· A: I would tell them to try and stay positive. Turning to prayer can help you keep your thoughts in a positive place.