Hi! This space is where many put a narrative about themselves which seems sterile and emotionless. Yes, I am replacing that narrative with this one. As I write this in May of 2020, I admit this global pandemic has helped change my focus. I see how fragile our society is when we try to use “social distancing” to stop the spread of an invisible enemy. These last few weeks have given me a time of reflection. Have you experienced it, too?

I live in a small, post-textile town in Western North Carolina. The COVID-19 virus has arrived, and things will be forever changed. The exact degree of change is still to be determined. Around town, painted and posted where all can see, there are lists of social events for the coming months. Will we have these celebrations? If so, what new restrictions will be mandated to limit the potential spread of this new enemy?

For many years, I have worked with Credit Unions helping members who were experiencing financial hardship. My view of that work is evolving, and I have this pandemic to credit for the new perspective. Yes, there are other diseases that cause more deaths every year than COVID-19. And in recent years, I experienced a few intense life-threatening ordeals which gratefully, I survived. However, the “shelter in place” mandate has given me a new awareness of the choices that I make daily.

The reward of a fresh perspective is the privilege to make new choices. In the weeks and months ahead, I am excited to see each new day with opportunities to grow and learn. It is a great time to be alive! A perfect time to help others find treasures they did not know existed!

Fear fades, hope grows…

John Huddle

Email John – john@johnhuddle.net with questions or comments.