What members of our community have learned from COVID-19

• April 3, 2020
• 2 Comments
• TRC Staff

In these uncertain times, one thing is for sure – the term “these uncertain times” is overused.

But perhaps that’s because “uncertain” is just so apt for the circumstances we find ourselves in. COVID-19 has made planning and preparing for the future difficult, while imposing restrictions on so many of the actions we can take for granted.

In all of life’s challenges, and successes, there are insights and learnings to be gleaned. So we posed two questions to our staff and volunteers to see if they’ve gained anything good out of these uncertain times (sorry).

What has COVID-19, and the challenges it’s created, taught you?

I am much more resourceful than I thought I was. I have been able to leverage skills I learned from my grandmother and historical education resources. I’m okay with not being able to leave the house as often as I used to but having an underlying medical issue has required me to not leave at all except to walk the dog and that is a little stressful. A pleasant surprise is that we’re cooking and baking from scratch producing much less waste as a result.

Joelle, Development Coordinator

It’s taught me to my treasure my relationships and freedom, for this is what I miss most at this time.

Pam, Community Events Officer

Connection for me is the magic word. This virus has forced us to make so many connections it is amazing, and it felt so good to reach out to all our friends and neighbours. When we are busy and caught up in our own world, we sometimes forget to reach out to our friends and loved ones.

Myrtle, Enabling Garden Volunteer

I should’ve bought a Peloton.

Rasheed, Marketing Specialist

I am so much more aware now of how quickly and profoundly the world can change. Sometimes it’s easy to feel powerless, and that nothing will ever be different, but this experience  is teaching me viscerally that isn’t so. I’ve also learned about my own resilience in the face of change, and my own vulnerability and fear in the face of uncertainty.

Beth, Project Development

I’ve learned that humans have incredible willingness, capacity and instinct to care for each other. Locally and globally we see so many examples of people and communities coming together for the common good – whether by staying home, helping vulnerable neighbours, or donating to response efforts. Despite the physical distance, it’s never been clearer that we are stronger together than we are alone.

Sandra, Director of Development

As a result of COVID-19, is there anything that you’ll change about your life going forward?

I’ve learned how much my emotional wellness is dependent on being close to the land so I’m going to make sure that’s possible. I’ll look for teachings in unforeseen places, smile at strangers, say thank you and mean it, hug my boys and my friends, make time for people even if it feels like I have none, simplify, waste less, grow more and most of all be grateful.

Jane, Enabling Garden Coordinator

Slow down and smell the roses! Spend more time with my husband, taking walks and enjoying nature, including exploring new natural areas in the area.

Robin, Director of Programs and Operations

I have new confidence to connect in a meaningful way with faraway family and friends due to new confidence with video conferencing.  I can read stories to nieces who live far away, have visits with family members across the globe, or share my gardening questions on video chat. How wonderful!

Catherine, LEADS Instructor

I will walk more. I will continue to enjoy working from home. I will appreciate the time spent with staff at work. Perhaps these are not so much changes but extensions. And I hope to never again to referred to as a member of at risk group. Now that would be a change I could embrace.

Dave, Education Program Director/Consultant

What about you? What have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, and what changes will you make going forward? Let us know in the comments!