The Butterfly Effect

“It has been said something as small as the flutter of a butterfly’s
wing can ultimately cause a typhoon halfway around the world.” – Chaos Theory

At 5 AM Saturday morning, I found myself at the local grocery store walking down half-barren aisles in search of some toilet paper as I had let my own supply diminish down to two rolls. Most conversations I’ve had over the past few days has been about the Coronavirus. As I watched the appointments drop off my calendar due to cancellation after cancellation, I couldn’t help but wonder…should I panic?

But, here is what I know to be true: Every choice we make matters. Every action we take affects someone. The Butterfly Effect is the phenomenon whereby a tiny localized change in a complex system can have large effects elsewhere. In the less-than-10-minute video below (if video doesn’t display, click here), Andy Andrews, New York Times bestselling author, tells a story about how over 2 billion lives were saved due to a single action.

As Andy says, “Everything you do matters. Every move you make. Every action you take. Not just for you, not just for your family, not just for your hometown. Everything you do matters to all of us, and forever.”

So, what can we do during this time when we may feel fearful? When things seem off balance? When the unknown is pervasive? Here are a few things to start:

• Be intentional about where you allow your mind to go. If you find yourself feeling fearful, try taking a few deep breaths to shift yourself into the moment you’re in.
• Do what it takes to prioritize your emotional, as well as physical, well-being. There’s tons of advice on taking care of yourself physically. But, don’t forget to take care of yourself emotionally. Whether that means listening to soothing music, reading a peaceful book, or watching uplifting shows like “I Love Lucy” reruns, do what is supportive to you.
• Help others if you can. It’s the little things – there’s nothing bigger. From quarantined neighbors singing in unison from their balconies to getting phone calls from people I haven’t heard from in so long (since they now have some space on their calendar) to people offering to deliver groceries to those who need it, there is so much hope and encouragement.
• Connect with loved ones. You might find yourself with some extra time over the next few weeks. This may be a good time to reach out and chat with loved ones or to reconnect with people you’ve lost touch with.

And, while we may feel isolated, remember, we are always connected. We all do better when we all do better.

TODAY’S PROMPT:

Take good care of yourself and others today.