Who Are We Now? Coronavirus Essay #3
We’ve had a couple of weeks to get used to this new reality we’re experiencing. We’re learning how to adjust to social distancing and self-quarantines. And, we’re learning about ourselves in the process.
We’ve seen courage in the face of life and death circumstances. We’ve seen ignorance in the face of scientific facts. And we’ve seen big-heartedness in the face of financial difficulties.
Yesterday I enjoyed a short run on the empty promenade in a light mist. When I hit the pavement on York Avenue, the trash was being emptied by smiling sanitation workers. We wished each other well adding joy to my lone run. They are essential workers, risking their well-being to keep the city running. While I’ve passed many who have avoided eye contact, the smiles that are shared with strangers has been a needed tonic in these uncertain times.
These are unprecedented times. There is great sadness and loss. Too many have lost lives or their health. And, we all have lost our daily routines. We’ve lashed out and have been judgmental. Conversely, we’ve also been kind and caring. And, we are learning how to navigate this moment in history, garnering dormant strengths.
I’ve doubled down on meditation. I feel like it’s been helpful to me, and necessary for my family. I can be intolerant when I’m stressed, and no one deserves that now. But, mostly, I’ve had to give myself and others a pass. I cannot hold myself to unrealistic standards when the world has changed so drastically. Instead, I am coming to know myself in a different way. I’m not laughing as much, but when I do laugh, I am overtaken by tearful glee, seemingly making the most of a rare moment. I make sure to read other’s works, particularly those I know. And, I am moved by their natural talents. Music has more power than ever. And how fortunate we are to have such unlimited access. And, though I have spent years going to live shows, theater, museums and galleries, I am extremely grateful that I have the space to rest now. Because I certainly need the downtime. We all have the opportunity to learn more about ourselves than we knew prior to this pandemic. We are changed. Let us all consciously create a change for the better.
