2020 was quite a year by any measure. While Covid-19 meant we all learned a new way of living, masked and forced to socially distance from our family and friends--and even acquaintances and strangers--we are adapting to this new normal, which includes a necessity of caring for others by controlling ourselves. While we'd all love nothing more than to head to a crowded restaurant or bar or church, we restrain ourselves for the common good. It's a new way of being in the world, and the paradox is that by staying away from others we are working to keep them (and ourselves) safe.
Once Covid-19 is under control, we will all begin the return to our former, relatively carefree lives. I imagine how nice it will be to see strangers smile, to travel, to leave behind the nagging fear of being exposed to a virus, or unintentionally exposing others. I suspect that the relief will be gradual and profound. Like prisoners released from a darkened cell, we will emerge in the sunlight, blinking, as our bodies and minds slowly reacclimatie.
In the meantime, let us use this time wisely. Like trees in winter, let's hunker down and wait for better days. Spring is coming, and when it arrives, we will greet it with an appreciation of things we previously took for granted.
It is in this new reality that we have all been forced to adapt--and grow. We have found ways to keep ourselves entertained. We have found joy in smaller things. We need less, and the things many of us crave now are things like proximity and connection.
What will it be like to live in a world where connection is more appreciated, where friends and family can hug and talk and laugh with reckless abandon? It will be glorious, friends. I can't wait.