Its the year 2020, what is new about facing storms? Not one thing. In one year we have faced a pandemic, job loss, financial loss, fires, hurricanes, killer hornets, earthquakes and that is only the tip of the iceberg that sank lifestyles as we knew them. Those deep gashes that ripped across a ship called Normal as we Know it, filled the boat with a true flood of disasters. While the band of politicians and doctors played on. As anxiety, depression, anger, confusion came flooding in, swamping the boat and threatening to break it in half, we fought on. Some laughing, comparing those around them to someone who was trying to empty the ocean with a spoon in their quest to slow the spread. Some went into a lock down mode, while all simply wanted to keep living as best as possible. The frustrations of the changes and requirements differing from place to place evident.
But we are strong, and when and if and as, we struggle, we keep normalcy alive.
From the beginning of man till now, there have been struggles. To survive, to thrive. All along the journey through time, there have been events that have been horrific in nature. Whether they were man created or of the earth. Humanity has survived much and grown much along the way.
We think of normalcy as the things we do all the time. We get up, go to work, enjoy a concert or walk in the park. We go out to a restaurant or club to spend time with friends. To church to spend time in worship. Every day, usual, normal things.Then we have something such as a pandemic that stops everything we consider normal, cold. All one hears is, no, no, can’t, can’t, stop, don’t. It reminds one of overhearing a parent instructing a toddler who you have to tell no, repeatedly even as they ignore and run on head first into their next exploit. But we’re not toddlers are we?
While I will say right here, I do believe that Covid-19 is a real health issue. I will also admit that there may be some validity in the thought that it has been exploited by those in power. All across the world. Maybe. It is however real, and it does kill.
That, however, is not the point of this write. My point is how we are facing the storms and taking care of ourselves and those around and important to us.
Our children understand a great deal when it is carefully explained to them. On their level. They are very intuitive and will know when you are not honest or trying to hide something. Explain what is necessary but don’t go beyond the necessary. Yes, people do die, but frightening a child is not necessary. To tell them without precautions people may be very ill. That is why they can’t hug everyone they see, that is why toys are limited in nursery, that is why, people are not getting as close as they once were.
Our elderly family member who may, or may not, be in an assisted living facility, who has possibly lost some mental capacities, do not understand why suddenly family is not coming to see them. They may be told hourly, but all they know is they are alone. We understand it is for their protection, they do not. Our heart may be breaking as well at the separation, but they only know their present and their present is void of family. Thankfully facilities as they are able, are becoming very creative in finding ways to allow some manner of family time.
Then, there is us. The in between group. The group that is trying to hold on and maintain the life we knew. We hear the news, we read the articles, we talk to doctors and neighbors and anyone who may have information to share. We seek to be safe and still have a life. Mask or no mask, distance of no, go out or stay in. Its a dance that seems to have no end. Me? I wear a mask and I distance in public places such as stores, but I must go outside.
Getting outside is important. It has been said often, that getting out into the sunlight is vital. Go hiking, walk the dog, ride a bike, go fishing. Get outside.
Taking care of our health is important. Eating well, taking the right supplements, exercise and staying hydrated are important.
Yet, even as we distance, it is important that we are able to gather with friends. Whether on that fishing trip or at a restaurant. To have the time to laugh, converse and be together. We are social creatures, we need company.Many who are trapped inside due to what ever reason are fighting depression. They are missing the social interaction. Check on your family and friends. Help them stay out of that darkness. A phone call can make all the difference.
The storm of the pandemic is real. The waves washing over are real. The struggle is real. But we are strong, and even when and if, we make mistakes in judgement or action, we can correct and deal with them. The important thing is to remain strong, remain focused, and remain determined. Many have grown weary as this has been a long, difficult year. But we are strong, and every storm eventually ends. May that rainbow come soon.
Words from The Dirt Road 