Lying in bed for 32 hours gives you perspective

I don’t feel so good.

You: No?

From Wednesday night until this morning, I was in bed for almost 32 straight hours.

You: Ouch - not fun.

Uncomfortable and, looking back, kind of boring. I’m still not feeling great, but I am sitting up. For this, I am most grateful.

You: Being that sick does give you some perspective.

Sure does. While I was miserable yesterday, I knew I’d get better soon, possibly by the weekend. We all know people who have illnesses which are permanent.

Perspective is important.

Another half a million people lost their jobs last month. If you have a job but it isn’t that great or doesn’t pay as much as you feel it should (or that the same job used to), keep perspective - you’re employed.

If your income has declined and you’ve had to tap savings, you’re not alone. Thanks to your financial discipline when things were good, you have savings to tap. Keep perspective: others do not.

If your income has increased and your company is growing, remember the rest of the world. Definitely enjoy your good fortune. But keep perspective - celebrate privately and with sensitivity to others.