In your action let there be a willing promptitude, yet a regard for the common interest; due deliberation, yet no irresolution; and in your sentiments no pretentious over-refinement. Avoid talkativeness, avoid officiousness.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book Three
Two years ago, as the pandemic was just taking over the world, I proposed to someone that COVID had turned life into one expansive Ramadan. I think I cited several aspects of it, but at this moment I'd like to just focus on the one that seems most important to me at this moment: intentionality. During Ramadan you have to plan your day. When do you start your fast? When and where do you end your fast? Did you eat and drink enough in the morning to carry you through the whole day? Where will you be during the day during prayer times? What extra volunteering and service will you be performing? In some ways COVID was like that. You had to think about every act, not simply because you wanted to minimize the chances of getting sick, but also because what if you got sick and died? Were you affairs in order, not simply financially, but also emotionally? Have you told all your friends that you love them and how much they mean to you? And while we all miss the spontaneity - both during Ramadan and during the depths of COVID - the importance of leading an intentional life, or a life of, to quote MA, "due deliberation," is a valuable lesson to remember.
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