As we are now amid a global pandemic, there are so many terms and words that heretofore have rarely been used and occasionally surfaced in casual conversation. Specifically, I am speaking of “new normal”. Lately I have heard so much discussion about our new normal now, and what our new normal will be once COVID 19 is behind us. There is so much that we do not know or understand about the cause and cure of this “thing” that has literally affected everyone.

First, we must establish what normal is. Dictionary.com describes normal as “conforming to the standard or the common type, regular, natural”. In response to that description many of our “standards” have ceased and may never return. Furthermore, all indications are pointing toward the fact that what has been common to us, regular, and natural is now proving to work to our detriment. So, what can and will we do to establish and create our own personal new normal that will work to our benefit. In fact, that is exactly where we must begin . . . the need to establish your own personal new normal. Many times we have allowed life to dictate our circumstances rather than dictating and declaring what life will entail for us. In order to establish a new normal, we must be progressive not complacent. In many aspects, we must be aggressive and not passive. In some cases it may require us to effectuate change, instead of always being in a place of accepting change.

I have learned from medical professionals that those who are critically battling this disease must have within them the force, the will to fight. They are literally in a battle to defeat this enemy and live! This is true even for those of us who are so richly blessed not to have contracted this disease. It may not be in us, but it is all around us — attacking loved ones, co-workers, friends, and casual acquaintances. What does it mean to fight? We must have the will to live and live life to the fullest. The desire to succeed, to create, to perform, to not only be blessed but to bless has to kick in, if not Satan, our archenemy is waiting to take us out with the next tragedy. Scripture tells us that the thief (Satan) comes to steal, kill, and destroy. But God’s purpose is to give us a rich and satisfying life. However, that rich and satisfying life will not come by osmosis, wishing, or hoping. It is said that anything worth having takes works. A rich and abundant life is worth having, wouldn’t you agree?

What will your new normal look like on the other side of this crisis? Since there is not a “one size fits all” prescription, it is up to you to determine what yours will be. It’s time to start the thought process, the necessary conversations, and steps to move forward. Not often in life, and maybe not ever before in our lifetime has the majority of the world found itself on the same playing field. COVID 19 quickly demonstrated that it has no regard for socio economic status, race, creed, or color. In plain and simple terms, it is no respecter of persons. So, considering that fact, it is imperative that we now more than ever before live proactive and not reactive! Life is precious, and there is no better time than the present to begin determining the order and direction of your new normal.