As a father of four children between the ages of 6 and 13, it was challenging during the early stages of the lockdown period to engage with my studies as a PhD student as well as assist my children with their learning.
In hindsight, knowing now the uncertainty of the pandemic and future lockdowns, I would have deferred my studies for six months. Yet, by grace and much support from my wife and my parents who now live with us, I have managed to sneak away for short periods of the day and have managed to make some progress with my work including some extra circular projects.
I have also managed to maintain my responsibilities in ministry as well as my part time job in a residential home for adults with learning difficulties with the difficulty of restrictions on human contact.
I don’t think we fully appreciate what a hug does for peoples physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Unfortunately, a virtual hug is not the same.
Anthony Royle is a PhD Candidate at the University of Glasgow.
Dear Anthony,
I wish you all the strength to carry on while you are juggling right now in your life. God will give you the strength to get through all this time. When you are in the 70’s as I am now, you will be looking back in your life and you wonder how you managed to do all this in your life. There are days from my own experience (Master in Accounting) and full time working etc. the energy can be at times low. Just remember somebody carries you and that is God until your energy is back again. I will hold you in my prayers. Therese