The uncertainty of our current circumstances has caused most of us to ask the question, “When will life be normal again?” Normal is defined in part as “usual, typical, or expected.” I think what most of us mean is that we desire more predictable routines and rhythms of life. The more I think about this though, the more I realize most of life is anything but normal.

It is true there are certain things we are accustomed to, like being able to gather in a crowd for church and other life events. In reality however, every day is different. Life teaches us to expect the unexpected. I learned a long time ago that balance in life is a worthy goal but often not a realistic one. There are many circumstances when we have to focus more on a particular area than on others, and it is part of the ebb and flow of the human experience.

We are currently experiencing a “new normal.” I hope it goes back to the “old normal” sooner rather than later. If we only long for normal, it can be elusive and we may never find it. I think our best strategy at the moment is to embrace the new normal, do the best we can with it, and look forward to better days ahead!