I like to think we have some choice in how we relate to our current situation. We certainly understand the Titanic aspect. Whether we want to work or play, at home or not, we cannot miss the reality that anyone can feel great today and succumb to the pandemic in too few tomorrows. Gradually, we are all learning to live with reality.

Our choices may be limited. But there are some. We can choose to experience the Titanic or the Love Boat. Or both! Maybe understanding each enhances the other.

Whether we are home alone or with a family of six, we are separated from our friends and many loved ones as never before. It can be our opportunity to feel the separation, understand the loss of time together, and allow ourselves to recognize how much we miss each other.

The Titanic may be in our faces every day, but the Love Boat can remain in our hearts and actions.

While daily numbers of deaths and economic distress are with us at every turn, so are the heartwarming stories of selflessness, service, and empathy spreading throughout every segment of our society. Spreading through every level of society â€" young and old, black and white, rich, and poor â€" I am aware of a swelling pride in who we are as Americans. We are more aware of our shared values than any temporary measurements. We are compassionate, inventive, selfless â€" to the extent that goodness is now "the coin of the realm."

Let us give thanks in this busy world for time to reflect on what is important to us. Everything from life itself to discovering who we are right now and who we want to be; what we would do if we knew we would not be here next year; who we want to tell that we love them or thank for being in our lives.