There’s no doubt that with all that’s going on in the world right now, it’s not easy to be hopeful and optimistic about things. Our lives have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic in ways none of us have ever experienced before.

School graduations have become drive-through or online events. No more hot dogs and Cracker Jacks at Dodger Stadium as we’re watching the games from home as teams battle in empty stadiums.  Church services and public gatherings over 10 people are on hold. Even funerals, which play an important role in grief recovery, are not allowed indoors.

Nationally, we have seen turmoil and violence in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd. People are on edge and are calling others «Karen» or «Sheep» in response to what’s going on.

When will it end?  That, we don’t know, as we don’t have control over it. What we do have control over is how we respond to all this. That is within our power.

Perhaps you recall, or even sung, the old tune, «Accentuate the Positive.» It was written and performed by Johnny Mercer during World War II, a time in the world’s history where it was also difficult to be optimistic about the future.  The words still ring true today:

You’ve got to accentuate the positive
Eliminate the negative
And latch on to the affirmative
Don’t mess with Mister In-Between
You’ve got to spread joy up to the maximum
Bring gloom down to the minimum
Have faith or pandemonium’s
Liable to walk upon the scene

– Johnny Mercer

No doubt there’s a lot to be pessimistic about. High unemployment. Some businesses will never come back. Tensions are high. People arguing about masks. And on and on.

But let’s take a look at the bright side. Many churches are holding services online, and even some outdoors. Restaurants are serving meals «Al Fresco» in newly created outdoor dining locations. Live sports are back. Here at Forest Lawn, we are conducting funerals safely outdoors.

We will continue to adjust and adapt to meet the needs of the families we serve while complying with the health department orders. We’ve seen and experienced a lot of changes over our 100-plus years of experience in assisting individuals and families with their memorial plans.  Give us a call at 888-204-3131 if you wish to learn more and we will be glad to answer any questions you may have.