It is so wonderful that people are trying to help others through this “shelter in place” by posting encouraging and inspiring messages. But sometimes people are all too encompassing with their broad appeal to the masses. I read one post that had me shaking my head. It said, “This is not normal for any of us.” For those of us with chronic conditions, yes it is! And I have learned to be content in these circumstances and I want you to be too.

We can find some contentment by staying busy and using some of these virtual opportunities which are offered. Free downloadable puzzles, games, patterns, and coloring pages are available through searches on the Internet. We can take virtual tours of national and international museums. Online classes and videos teach us to learn something new. Staying in touch with our friends is so easy with video calling and messaging. And there are non-virtual things to do too: walking, gardening, exercising, playing board and card games, reading, crafting, and other hobby related activities. The possibilities seem endless.

But there is even a better way to find contentment. What if, with this extra time on your hands, God is offering you something else too? Could this be an opportunity to discover the artist/creator within yourself? I shared on my blog last week that through my difficulties, God gave me a gift, the gift of writing. God has given each of us gifts. This could be your chance to explore and develop your gift. I have many talented friends and family who are using their artistry. How about you? Is there a writer, or musician, or crafter, or photographer, or baker waiting inside of you waiting to come out? How do you find this gift? That’s easy. It’s usually found in the things you love to do or are passionate about.

This poem written by John Bunyan over 300 years ago is rather pertinent to our situation today.

He placed me in a little cage,
Away from gardens fair;
But I must sing the sweetest songs
Because He placed me there.
Not beat my wings against the cage
If it’s my Maker’s will,
But raise my voice to heaven’s gate
And sing the louder still!

Right now, you may feel like you’re living in a cage stuck at home with nothing to do.Take this opportunity to find your talent/gift/passion and use it to bring joy and to bless others while glorifying God in the process.