Hi guys
We’re living in crazy times and none of us know what the next few months will be like. The uncertainty is making everyone anxious and the restrictions to many of the things we love to do make escape from the uncertainty difficult. For many, there’s the added stress of losing income, their job or even relationships.
The loss of normalcy, income or connection is hitting us all. Where there is loss there is grief.
Usually people only associate grief with loss of a loved one. But the five stages of grief also apply to what we’re all experiencing:
• Denial – This virus won’t affect me, it’s just a cold
• Anger – You’re asking me to stay at home and taking away what I love doing
• Bargaining – If I social distance for two weeks everything will be OK, right?
• Sadness – I don’t know when this will end
• Finally, acceptance – This is happening. I have to work out how to move forward.
Acceptance is where the power lies. We find control in acceptance – I can wash my hands. I can keep a safe distance. I can work remotely. I can find ways to continue enjoy myself.
I hope that explaining the stages of grief helps each of you manage this uncertain time. A lot of things are out of our control, particularly in the current environment. Control what you can and let go of what you can’t.
And if you’re struggling, please please talk to someone – your family, friends, committee, coaches, football ops or me. None of us have the answers but talking to someone can help find balance in what you’re thinking. As Scott has said, we can and will get through this together.

Ian Taylor
Knox FNC Chaplain