It was March 15, 2020, the first day of Enhanced Community Quarantine that I felt like I was being strangled. It finally dawned on me that I cannot just take the next flight to see my family whenever I miss them.
I fared no better in the coming days as I felt like I was being pulled between two opposing powerful forces. I was succumbing to a depressed state while also being very much aware that I had to pull myself together. I had to stay strong for my family (especially my mom who broke down over the phone), my staff (who were with me), our family businesses (we had to close non-essential businesses and had to maximize digital marketing efforts for essential business), my anxious patients (who somehow made me forget my troubles because I had to do counseling as early as 7am and as late as midnight), and the donors who needed my assistance in coordinating aid. Not to mention the responsibilities I had with corporate clients and writing articles for Manila Bulletin. I was ready to snap!
God's Word sustained me. Worship kept me on my toes. My inner circle and our daily devotions and prayer meetings kept me sane. With a renewed mind and spirit, I embraced the new norm, the things I have no control over. Gratitude started to fill my heart. I am thankful to God for the gift of technology. Especially in times when the longing to be with my family, especially my nephew Noah and niece Mira, physically hurts.
“I think ECQ can draw the creativity in us to still emotionally connect, have fun and have engaging activities even when we’re required to be physically distant. The silver lining is that we’re lucky to be experiencing this at an age where we have technology to help us.”
- Dr. Angel Belle Dy of Medmom Institute
My cousin Leana who has an MA in Psychology, Concentration in Developmental Psychology, organized a virtual tea time with our darling Miranda.
"I think one way we can support children and help them cope with these unusual circumstances is to allow them to connect with others online. Connecting with family members or friends can provide a sense of familiarity and security especially during this period of change." - Leana
Our little girl was ecstatic when she saw us. She sang the song I’m a Little Teapot and danced Tala for us. She happily ate popcorn and drank water. She had tea time outside the house with her “duyan” hanging beside their pets Mango and Kiwi’s cage. Simple joys.
"Speaking as a tita, I wanted to bring joy and amusement to my niece. I don’t get to see Noah and Mira as often. I want to be part of their lives as much as I can given that are families are close. So the virtual tea party was a fun and playful way to build our relationship." - Leana
If there is one thing I have learned from this modern day Rapunzel story of my life, it is to cherish every moment and make the most out of that moment while hoping that God has yet to reveal something greater very soon.
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| My Tea Time Corner |
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| Mira is eating popcorn |
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| Cousin Leana's Tea Time Spot |
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