To Be Like Zippy!

I have an adorable 1 year old grand-daughter named Zyyah ; we call her Zippy. Since we can’t meet face to face because of the Coronavirus pandemic, our family connects through social media. During a recent virtual gathering, while the adults were complaining about wearing face masks and the lack of toilet paper, I could see Zippy in the background singing and dancing around the room; not a care in the world.

I thought, “Oh, to be like Zippy”! She had no concern about social distancing or fear for the future. And isn’t that how God wants us to act?

1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you”.

Maybe when it comes to handling life’s challenges, we need a little less us, a lot more God and a tiny bit more Zippy.

Keep the Faith Baby!

Pastor and Politician Adam Clayton Powell Jr was a well known advocate. Although politically he only represented the community of Harlem, his work in the church, civil rights, community service    and his fiery speeches changed the world. Powell was  the first African American to be elected to the United States House of Representatives from 1945 - 1971. He had many impactful quotes, however probably his most famous quote was "Keep the Faith, Baby"! He even wrote a book and produced an album with that title. Those are positive words we need to hear in any era.

In this time of COVID 19, for many of us it may be difficult to see anything positive. However, during this pandemic, this is the time we must look for things that ignite our hope. I'm not a Pastor like Powell, but I'd like to share how we can, "Keep the Faith, Baby" through these challenging times.

1. Look Up!  Let's be honest; watching the news everyday and hearing the alarming numbers on illnesses and deaths can be very scary. It can cause us to feel down and even physically make our faces point to the floor,  looking down; feeling that things will never get any better. However, this is where our faith must kick in. Pray with your family and pray for your community and friends and for our world. Things will get better so don't give up hope.

2. Look Away! Sometimes hearing all the negative news can be overwhelming. You must take a break. Step away from the television. Take the dog for walk, play some board games with your family, turn on some music and dance around the room. Turn off the TV and  move from the latest headlines. It's ok to be concerned but don't become consumed. 

3.  Look Ahead! This too shall pass! Let's plan for the future. For many of us, this has been a time for reflection; what have you been delaying in your life; what's on your, "One day I'm going to..." list? Now that most of us must stay home and shelter in place,  take time to re-evaluate that list. From cleaning out the basement to making plans to  go back to college when this pandemic ends. Start planning for the Next step in your future!

Let's remember we are all in this together so learn to lean on one another and "Keep the Faith, Baby!'