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Surreal

Surreal: marked by the intense irrational reality of a dream. Also unbelievable, fantastic or dream-like. 

  This is the only word I can think of to describe the situation we are in right now. And when I say "we" I don't mean just my family, I mean the entire world. 
  The media calls it a pandemic, and I guess that's accurate. It's a strain of the coronavirus called COVID 19, a new strain that spreads rapidly, and because of its newness, we have no immunity built up against it, or at least that's how I understand it. It manifests itself in flu-like symptoms and is currently taking America by storm. 
  It started in China, then moved to Italy, and has now spread here, causing people everywhere to panic. The stores are sold out of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfecting wipes, and shelves are completely cleared out of canned & frozen foods and bottled water.
  All events, including General Conference, and even church have been cancelled for the time being, and we are being asked to do our meetings at home.
  The schools have shut down and teachers are setting up classes remotely so that students can get their schoolwork done online. Right now it's a "soft closure", but this is evolving so quickly that within a day or two, it is likely that we'll be in a full quarantine. 
   I went to the grocery store today for some produce and it just felt weird, truly surreal, like we're in the middle of a crazy dream. Trying to explain to the girls why they can't see their friends is going to be impossible, and homeschooling... I don't even have words. 
  As the last week has unfolded, I have been surprised at how much peace I've felt. Of course I feel uncertain and I have my concerns, but for years we have been told to prepare, and I've done the best I can in that regard, and I feel at peace. I'm struggling with my health (I'll save that for another post) but spiritually I'm in a good place, I am close to my Savior and I know He is so mindful of us right now. Trials are a time for growth, and He sees our potential. It is an amazing time in the church and I am optimistic (somewhat cautiously) that this will all be for our good. 

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