Good reader,
The blossoms are coming, and that’s important. I can’t say I’ve been bright and chipper every day since the lockdown order descended on Quebec, but it’s hard to despair in Spring.
You may be struggling with the new demands of remote work, having that challenge complicated by kids at home (and learning to be a teacher), or you might just be bored. Whatever your situation, things have changed in the last few weeks. Schedules are upsidedown, yes, but life remains much the same.
Meals need making (and kitchens cleaning), people of all ages need hugs, and there’s plenty of work to do, whether over videoconference or in unsettling lines at the grocery store. As much as things have changed on the surface, the substance of things remains the same, and that’s some comfort.
Even so, you might be longing for some additional comfort. I hope this edition of GoodLinks will be a hopeful care package!
We’re flattening the curve. The worst is yet to come, but people are pulling together, and we’re reminded what (and who) is essential. The lower rungs of our economy are being rightfully cheered and we’re rearranging our lives for the weakest around us. The last are being put first, and that’s a beautiful thing.
And don’t forget: the blossoms are coming.
-Matt
Why death is bad: a primer – Alan Jacobs
Sacrificing your life for something is one thing; sacrificing others is something else.
Repository of Hope – Comment Magazine
A collection of poems, prayers, and practices that offer perspective for uncertain times. It’s ok not to be a stoic; it’s ok to crave hope.
An Interview with Francis Collins – The Atlantic
The director of the U.S. National Institutes of Health talks COVID-19, faith, and friendship. A surprising bit of inspiration, but a welcome one. One can only hope that this crisis might serve to remind us of the importance of public institutions, and the good people who keep them alive.
Two Slant Trees
The first podcast by good friends of mine. They’re hilarious, but they’re doing an excellent job of helping listeners process what we’re feeling under lockdown. The babbling of toddlers imposes itself occasionally because this is real life.
“Tremendous Trifles” by G.K. Chesterton
Because one thing we need now more than ever is eyes to see.
Storytime, live!
I’m regularly reading stories on Instagram during the quarantine. We just finished The Wind in the Willows, and voting is open for the next book: The Princess and the Goblin or The Sword in the Stone.
Quality streaming, from your local library
Sign up with the local library and enjoy unlimited streaming for kids and 4 streams a month of great movies and documentaries. The limit is helpful. We will likely regret spending our quarantine on the diminishing returns of instant entertainment.
Thanks for reading Good Words! If you know someone who would enjoy this issue, feel free to forward it to them or to share it wherever ✉️👇
Don’t forget: the comments are open and I’d love to chat with you