Tough times are more bearable if we remind ourselves there will be an end to our suffering.

This doesn’t mean life will go back to where it was as if nothing happened. It does mean there will be a new normal that will be, at a minimum, OK, and may even be great.

I learned this valuable lesson nearly 12 years ago when my then 18-year-old son became extremely ill. His suffering included four surgeries in six months. He was in pain 24/7 for months on end.

There were times when he said, “this is too much.” He was right. But then I would remind him it was “for now,” that his extraordinary pain would end one day.

This is true of our current pandemic. There is real suffering medically, financially, and emotionally. It will take time to get to our new normal.

But we will get there.

You’ve gotten through tough times in the past. Illness, death, job loss and heartbreak happen because life happens. You moved on, not forgetting, but recreating your new normal.

My son still lives with some pain, but he manages it and has created a wonderful life. He has a good job, a great wife, a lovely home, and the most adorable baby girl that has ever lived. (Yes, I’m a little biased.)

Try saying “for now” when you feel stuck.

As hard as it is to think about the future when you’re not sure how to get through the next ten minutes, just say the words “for now.”

That’s where hope lies.

And that will move you forward.

To your new normal.

You’ll get there.

You always do.