Written By: Tayler Cathrine
I recently listened to a sermon by Steven Furtick, and he said something that really stuck with me. Something that I have clung to during this time of quarantine. Living the military lifestyle, I am used to living day by day and not knowing what crazy things may be thrown my way. There are memes saying the world is seeing a glimpse into military life. As much fun as those memes are, the quote that I have been sharing with everyone is:
“We may all be in the same storm, but we are not in the same boat.”
This is so profound. YES, we are all experiencing something new as a country, BUT we are all being affected differently. Some of us have spouses stuck overseas. Some of us have spouses having to unexpectedly leave. Some of us have been laid off. Some of us are thoroughly enjoying this break. Some are having to make tough decisions with their companies. And others’ lives haven’t changed much at all.
Same storm. Different boats.
I know for us this has been a whirlwind of a time. I just had a baby. Our Women Soaring physical conference that we had been preparing for and working on for months has been postponed. Pretty much every appliance in my home has broken. My husband has been laid off, and will possibly choose to go back to active duty and leave for a couple of months. We are homeschooling. We have a full house of 10 people. We are celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary today. And we have had to cancel numerous trips on top of it all.
I know this isn’t everything we have experienced, but honestly, as a military spouse, I feel I have been more than prepared for these things to happen. I don’t say all of this for sympathy but to show that our boats look different. My boys have been struggling emotionally. They miss their friends, their sports, their routine, their cousins and grandparents. Their boat looks different, and as parents, we need to keep in mind that they are also adjusting and missing their lifestyle.
Some people have had loved ones pass away. HOW DIFFICULT!!! I can’t imagine. My hearts go out to them. There are people who are in abusive homes and now are quarantined in that situation. Some have little kids and haven’t even noticed a difference. Some are having a much-needed break to slow down and reconnect with their families.
My hope is that, through this season, we are sensitive and recognize that each person is in a different boat. Be kind and remember that the storm is the same, but our boats are not. So whatever your boat looks like today, I pray that you are able to see past the storm and see what others are going through. I have been able to see so many people stop and bless others. Let’s continue being a blessing to others even after this storm. I pray we all come out stronger, covered, blessed, closer, and in great gratitude for all those who have worked so hard to keep us fed, safe, and healthy.
Written By: Tayler Cathrine
