Thank you for your essay.
Compared to most animals we humans are incredibly discontent and constantly striving for something. Striving is a good thing in that we may genuinely get better things out of life if we are ready to work for them, but stopping and just being grateful for what you got us sometimes a tough job.
I think this is not just a philosophical stance you can take but something that requires focus and effort. Exercising gratitude, forgiveness, self-love is a flame that needs fuel to burn and is fueled by asking guidance and blessing for yourself and people you care about.
Sorrowful and depressive thoughts are one important color of the palette but at difficult times (like this quarantine time) they easily begin to dominate. At these times I think it's very important to do things to keep the fire burning even when you don't feel like doing it.
Btw. I really liked this part in your post: "If you use the acknowledgement of your own shortcomings to shield and defend yourself from criticism, as I did, you are missing the point."