One Big Time-Out

Recently I spoke to a friend about what we’re going through right now. She said that the world and now the United States is in “one big time-out.” I was surprised to think of it in this way, but the isolation we are experiencing is different from anything I have ever known. Time-out is usually a temporary break from an activity that has become somehow problematic. We have been given this opportunity to make something out of the unknown.

Time-out as social distancing:

In child rearing, a “time-out” is a technique for giving a child a break from a pattern of behavior that is unacceptable. But all of us are in a “time-out” from contact and from doing the things we normally do each day. It is meant to be helpful and provide social distancing in the midst of a pandemic. We are hoping to slow the spread of the virus.

Time-out for making butterflies from coffee filters:

My niece has two small children and they are now home full time. They have been taught to be creative throughout their young lives, so now they are doing art, making butterflies out of coffee filters, and drawing beautiful pictures. I know they will soon be cooking and playing music and reading. They hope to share their butterflies with older people who need these insects with their colorful wings.

Helping our neighbors from a comfortable distance:

This morning my neighbor texted me to see if I needed anything. I was in good shape, but I said I could use some facial tissues as they we were sold out at the stores. A few hours later she brought fresh vegetables, home-made bread and all kinds of fruits. Reacquainting ourselves with who our neighbors are is always a positive practice. We receive and we give. Let’s take the necessary “time-out” to do helpful acts that put no one at risk.

Services and classes from our homes:

This past Sunday, many Episcopal churches and other houses of worship closed, so they live-streamed from all over the country. I took the opportunity to visit on-line Ascension Episcopal Church in New York City. A good friend attends this church on Fifth Avenue and 10th Street. It is a beautiful church and this is the “Morning Prayer” service from the Book of Common Prayer.

There are also classes and music and a multitude of courses on line. If you miss your art museums, many museums including MoMA, MET and others have classes with on-line art tours.

A prayer for those who are in the midst of sickness and a deeper isolation and those who continue to work particularly those in the medical profession. We pray for all who are vulnerable :

Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love’s sake. (Book of Common Prayer.)