As of today we have spent more than two weeks in our homes. It has been weeks since schools were closed due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, businesses were shuttered and people were told not to congregate, not to attend Mass or gather in groups of more than 10. Amazing people have jumped into action, making sure that students have meals, elders are secure, and we have plenty of museums, books and games online to keep us from going stir-crazy.
Oddly enough, this forced isolation seems to be having a positive effect on some people: I see more neighbors out walking than ever before, always keeping a safe six-foot distance, but waving and smiling despite the crisis. Spring cleaning seems to be the activity of choice, as homebound adults see this as a chance to catch up on housework, and take some control over germs that might be invading. People are using up their stored-up food and supplies in favor of going into germy and often ill-stocked stores. Companies are offering new ways for those who dare not leave the comfort of their homes or cars to get prescriptions, groceries, five-course restaurant meals and much needed craft supplies.
There are trials and tribulations, sadness and loss that are multiplied by the forced isolation, but so far the attitude seems to be that we will get through this, that we are stronger than the virus. And then - we learned that are facing at least another month of house arrest. Lets see how this plays out....and how we come out when the restrictions are lifted!
It will be interesting to see if our neighbors and colleagues accept this extension with resignation, or if people start breaking out now that the weather is clearing and the boredom is becoming palpable. There are only so many museums, concerts and books we can stream, only so much cleaning to be done before we start wandering aimlessly throughout the house, looking for work, dusting the dog.
Oddly enough, this forced isolation seems to be having a positive effect on some people: I see more neighbors out walking than ever before, always keeping a safe six-foot distance, but waving and smiling despite the crisis. Spring cleaning seems to be the activity of choice, as homebound adults see this as a chance to catch up on housework, and take some control over germs that might be invading. People are using up their stored-up food and supplies in favor of going into germy and often ill-stocked stores. Companies are offering new ways for those who dare not leave the comfort of their homes or cars to get prescriptions, groceries, five-course restaurant meals and much needed craft supplies.
There are trials and tribulations, sadness and loss that are multiplied by the forced isolation, but so far the attitude seems to be that we will get through this, that we are stronger than the virus. And then - we learned that are facing at least another month of house arrest. Lets see how this plays out....and how we come out when the restrictions are lifted!
It will be interesting to see if our neighbors and colleagues accept this extension with resignation, or if people start breaking out now that the weather is clearing and the boredom is becoming palpable. There are only so many museums, concerts and books we can stream, only so much cleaning to be done before we start wandering aimlessly throughout the house, looking for work, dusting the dog.
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