This colorful photo bursts with anticipation. It was taken just moments before our first group Thanksgiving dinner in two years. We were having a small gathering of our son and daughter in law, who got married during Covid, and her parents, who we were meeting for the first time. It was pre-Omicron, and — we’d hoped — post major Covid. Everyone was vaxx’d and boosted. We felt comfortable partaking in a careful, small-group setting. We cooked together, and ate, and shared stories, and laughed. It was simple, and seemed like old times. Here we are, one month later, facing the bleak winter months in another potential lockdown. We’re not sharing anymore, and can’t invite anyone in, it seems. Dr. Fauci says to stay away. Plans are falling apart. Though we have learned a few things, we’re back to Covid protocols. No hugging. No gathering. No nothing. Ugly masks. We try to find time every day to walk outdoors in the winter cold. Other than that, we’re inside, on our own, on our devices, conducting lives through phones and mail. Here we go again. How do we attach meaning to sitting indoors? Where do we find beauty? I’ll have to get back to you on that.
January 6, 2022
As an elementary teacher, I work with kids who have already adapted to Covid-19 times by talking about the pros and cons of virtual learning. The sad part is when they say "teacher, when will I get to see you in person? I miss playing outside, seeing my friends, can I give you a hug?" The hardest part is not being able to be by their side to help them more. I can see some students who struggle with school, struggle with interaction and learning online. Many of them during our digital recess will play videogames or with their toys but I can tell it's not the same as being able to play around with one another.
December 25, 2020