Reassessing Priorities in Uncertain Times
This week, like thousands of other parents, I helped my daughter pack up her dorm room and move home months before we had planned. In sharp contrast to the bustling excitement of college move-in day, the dorm was like a ghost town, and the few people we encountered wore masks, gloves, and furrowed brows. Yet even in that sad moment, I realized how fortunate we are in so many ways, and my heart went out to the families still separated through no fault of their own.
As the entire world grapples with the uncertainties of what tomorrow, next week, next month, and next year might bring, my guess is that parents and students of all ages are experiencing significant shifts in their priorities and mindsets. While dinner conversation a month ago might have focused on school activities, grades, upcoming vacations, and the familiar rhythms of daily life, we are developing an entirely new vocabulary: COVID-19, Shelter-In-Place, and a war with invisible enemy germs. And while this new and troubling terminology has forced us to rethink every aspect of our lives from how we shop to how we work and learn and socialize, the longer-term ramifications are equally important.
In these moments, we each grapple with our values, our priorities, and our short and long-term commitments. Many have lost their jobs and their sense of security, and many will lose loved ones and cherished friends. History tells us that this too shall pass, and I believe this to be true. However, since my work gives me the privilege of working with young people and their families during a critically important time in their lives, I have spent a great deal of time reflecting on what comes next. For some, this time period may be nothing more than a major inconvenience. The dream school remains the same, the path clear and attainable. For others, their worldview will forever shift. Career plans may have shifted, or staying closer to home may suddenly seem much more attractive. All are equally valid responses to one of the most stressful events in modern history, and it is never too late to re-evaluate your plans.
So, my personal take-away at this moment in time is to practice a skill which has never come easily to me—stillness. While the noise rages around us, and when it eventually subsides, my job is to listen and serve. My personal mission remains the same: working to ease the stress of the college application process. So if you or someone you know needs some support right now, I am here as a resource even if you cannot afford to pay for my services. I will be sharing as much as I can through my website and on my Facebook page, and if you have questions, email me at darla@mycollegeroad.com. Whenever possible, we can set up a call or Zoom consultation. We are all in this together, so let me know how I can be of service.
