Soul Path Insights

The year 2020, marked by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, was a time of unprecedented challenges and profound transformations. I was living in Manila, Philippines, temporarily assigned for my job on a three-year contract. On March 20, 2020, the President of the Philippines announced the closure of the country’s borders to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Despite these efforts, the virus continued to spread, and many people were dying.

The situation was even worse in the United States, with the number of affected individuals rising daily. Following the announcement, many expatriates departed the Philippines to return to their home countries. It was a time of chaos and confusion for many, including myself.

On the day of the announcement, I was at my condo but needed to go back to the office to retrieve my passport. I tried to book a ride share but had no luck, and I couldn’t get a taxi either. Without a personal vehicle, I heavily relied on ride shares. Everything was suspended, and stores were closed. I was scared of what was happening worldwide; it almost felt like a zombie apocalypse with so many people affected by the virus. I went back to my condo, feeling defeated and helpless. The office building had shut down, and it was too far to walk to retrieve my passport. I waited in my condo to hear from my supervisor at work. Many of my friends and coworkers, also expatriates, were going home to the US. I panicked, not knowing if it was safer to return to California or stay in the Philippines. After watching the news about millions getting sick in the United States, I decided it was safer to stay in the Philippines, given the country’s stricter prevention measures. After making this decision, I had to figure out how to spend my time in quarantine.

During the months I quarantined alone in my condominium, I relished the solitude. Despite the global confusion, I took advantage of the time to read books, scrapbook, create art, try new recipes, learn new piano pieces, watch my favorite shows, and paint. I also reached out to friends and family via video calls, sharing my quarantine activities. It was a time for self-introspection, engaging in activities I loved, and reconnecting with friends and family.

One of the first things I did in quarantine was read books. I read about finance, self-improvement, and fiction, and I also started a diary. What began as an inconceivable event turned into a time of refreshment for my soul and the planet.

Quarantine gave me time for self-reflection. I found myself delving into activities that I had long neglected due to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Reading books about finance and self-improvement not only kept my mind sharp but also helped me to reassess my life goals and financial strategies. Starting a diary allowed me to document my thoughts and feelings during this unprecedented time, providing a therapeutic outlet and a historical record of my experiences.

Quarantine gave me quality time with family and friends, even though it was online. Video calls became a lifeline, connecting me with loved ones across the globe. We shared stories, laughter, and support, bridging the physical distance with emotional closeness. These virtual interactions reminded me of the importance of maintaining strong relationships, regardless of the circumstances.

Quarantine gave the earth a rest, refreshment, and a break from pollution. As cities around the world shut down, the decrease in human activity led to clearer skies and cleaner air. The environmental impact was a silver lining amid the crisis, highlighting the planet’s resilience and the importance of sustainable living. This period of reduced pollution served as a wake-up call, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to protect our environment for future generations.

Through this experience, I learned several invaluable lessons. First, the importance of adaptability became clear. The sudden lockdown and restrictions forced me to adapt quickly to a new way of living, underscoring the necessity of being flexible and open to change, especially during unpredictable times. Second, the value of self-reflection was highlighted. Quarantine provided a rare opportunity for deep introspection, allowing me to reassess my priorities and understand myself better. Third, the strength of human connections was reinforced. Despite physical isolation, the ability to connect with friends and family through technology proved invaluable, emphasizing the importance of emotional support and maintaining relationships for mental well-being. Fourth, environmental awareness was brought to the forefront. The noticeable improvements in the environment during the lockdown underscored the impact of human activity on the planet and the need for sustainable practices. Lastly, the experience tested my resilience and taught me the importance of staying strong and finding ways to thrive even in adverse conditions.

In conclusion, the year 2020 and the subsequent quarantine period were times of significant challenge and growth. My experience in Manila during the pandemic provided unique opportunities for personal development, highlighting the importance of adaptability, self-reflection, strong human connections, environmental awareness, and resilience. Despite the fear and uncertainty, this period ultimately became a time of refreshment for my soul and the planet, reminding me of the power of inner strength and the potential for positive change in the face of global crises.

© 2024 Amelie Chambord