Good and Bad
We had it good. Talk with friends face to face, give hugs and handshakes. Shop anywhere and find what one needed. Go to a park, a concert, a restaurant, a church or a movie. Head to the coast, swim in a pool, go dancing. Plan a cruise or a vacation airline trip. Go to the pool hall and compete with friends. Never wear a mask except at Halloween.
We had it good. Looking up to a President for eight years, and a government which, though perhaps not perfect, was competent and scandal-free. Awakening each day without the expectation of another assault on the Constitution or common decency. We had hope and a vision of a good future for ourselves and the next generation. We had allies, treaties, and respect around much of the globe. We assumed there was a Rule of Law.
Are there any bright spots left? Our friends remain, though contact is more by phone, e-mails, and the marvelous (sort of) platform of Zoom. Many of us have discovered the joys of cooking, and enjoying the plethora of internet recipe creativity. People are supporting local restaurants via takeouts. The air is noticeably cleaner, the roads are less crowded. Many folks are decluttering their domiciles and making long anticipated improvements (home improvement stores are packed, though socially distanced.) And whole groups of workers, from delivery folks to medical personnel, whose jobs were assumed but perhaps under appreciated, have revealed their value and essential nature.
Pets have been the salvation for many folks. They might have differing viewpoints of the pandemic situation, however.
What have been your positive experiences during the pandemic? Or even, has there been any bright side during the last three years? Any new insights? How are y’all making it through? Are you sleeping enough? I’ve always been an optimist, but it’s wavering, I’ll admit. Strange times.