The time will come. Day by day some of the binds are loosening. The CDC has announced that those who are vaccinated no longer need to wear masks for small outside gatherings. The end may not yet be in sight, but it feels reasonable to envision it around a not-too-distant corner.
I would love to go to the movies again, to sit in the dark with fellow movie-goers all of us experiencing together cinematic storytelling. I look forward to seeing my children and grandchildren, swooping them to me in great big jubilant hugs, the pall of the pandemic a thing of the past. What will it be like to speak to someone full face? To see their smile and hear their laughter unmuffled by a mask? I think of Alfred Eisenstadt’s iconic image of the sailor embracing and kissing the nurse on V-J Day in Times Square. Will there be such an image capturing Covid’s end? What do you imagine it to be? What is the first thing you intend to do?
Even though restrictions are being lifted and we can get out more now, and I am no medical expert, I think the virus will always be with us and we will need annual booster shots just like the pneumonia shots we now get.
Sorry to be such a pessimist, but sometimes reality stinks.
It’s quite likely, Manny. Even as I wrote about the pandemic being “over” a little voice
said, “Hey, Debra, this won’t be ‘over’ it will evolve and we’ll evolve with it.” But as we
do, I look forward to seeing you and Nancy again.
“Saw” my nephrologist yesterday (Telehealth call). It’s likely that despite having had both of my shots I’m not protected because of the immunosuppressant drugs I take (three different–albeit small–studies have found that the vaccines have not been effective for >60% of kidney recipients). Dr. Neumann said I should not be a hermit, but I should be smart and be careful–wear my mask when around other people, stay away from large groups of people (having a few vaccinated people over for lunch/dinner is okay), only go to restaurants where all employees wear masks and the tables are at least six feet apart–better yet, sit outside if possible. Especially considering my suppressed immune system, I still pretty gun shy.
I can totally understand that, Anita, and that sounds like sage counsel.
Hugs, Hugs, Hugs is what I think of most of all! That touching intimacy is so important for all of us! And to imagine kissing another’s cheeks, or touching one cheek to another, or holding hands – ooooohhhhhh……. Yes! I can’t wait!
Yes. Can’t wait to hug you when we have a lunch (outside) at Leo’s!
Happy to get back to life as it used to be. Love sharing our stories and laughter and everything good. Oh It is a big blessing now that we are not so isolated. Thank you for sharing these wonderful words. It made me feel optimistic.
I am so glad, Brenda. It is indeed a blessing to be out of isolation.