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Has anything in your life or experience prepared you for a time like this? If so, tell us about it.

I don't honestly know. The only thing I can say is that<strong> I continue to fall back on my experiences growing up and the people in my life who taught me how to be in the world.</strong> We didn't always have a lot, but we had our love for each other, and the willingness to roll up our sleeves, and pitch in and do what it took to contribute to keep things going.<strong> I remind myself of all of their guidance and life lessons</strong> and I keep coming up with reminders of some key philosophies: - the importance of<strong> listening to others</strong> and<strong> doing what I can to help,</strong> even if it might seem small. - The importance of<strong> just taking each day as it comes</strong> and to do my best (sometimes that might be just to get through the day). - And<strong> reminding myself that this isn't going to last forever</strong> and to keep my faith and hope in what's good and to try to stay positive and encouraging. - Gratitude - It's been very important to me to<strong> every day think of what/who I'm grateful for </strong> (family, friends, good health, a roof over my head, food on the table) and to share what I have with others. <strong> I find comfort and strength in those ideas and thinking about my loved ones and what they would do.