I’ve just ended week ten of remote learning, and it’s wearing. I am more exhausted during this period, than I am, standing in the classroom in front of my kids. I have spent an equal amount of time talking with my students about how things are going and their feelings, while also talking to parents about the difficulties of remote learning and that they are not alone.
No one asked for this…
Not for the social distancing, the masks, the arrows on the shop floor, the lines to get food, the closed beaches, businesses or parks. Those working, just hope for a kind word and for our patience. So say “thank you” to the person who wipes down your trolley, the pharmacist still filling prescriptions, the delivery person who brings the food to your door, even if you’ve been waiting for a while.
No one asked for this…
To be alone, unable to physically connect with friends, to cancel weddings, baby showers, family reunions, to miss graduation. Exchanging a drink at the bar, a bite in a diner, a weekend getaway with sessions on zoom so that they remain connected with friends. People didn’t ask to think about hugging their parent or embracing a friend. To be separated from loved ones unable to travel from other parts of the world. People are doing what they must in order to end this pandemic, so that they can kiss their loved ones again.
No one asked for this…
To be let go because the business employing them couldn’t keep them on. They didn’t ask to spend hours on the phone seeking unemployment, to stand in food lines, or to sit at home with nothing to do, wondering if their life will ever be the same. They didn’t want to miss their rent or mortgage payment, and they secretly hoped that the assistance spoken about on the news would help them out. And even as some places lift quarantine, people still unemployed are being evicted with no place to go.
No one asked for this…
This is for certain, an unsure and surreal time. I am acutely aware that people are experiencing their own level of stress and facing their own ordeals and demons. I am aware there are people who continue to be comfortable and safe except for the boredom. I am aware there are those struggling to pay bills and wondering if they will be employed again. I am aware there are those who are actively trying to convince people that this is all a hoax, while others on the front lines are treating the sick.
Just remember…
It’s ok to be sad, to cry, to be unsure, as much as it is ok, to laugh, find joy, to embrace this new life. Remember people are doing things they have never had to do before, wait for food stamps, learn remotely, stand in empty classrooms, hold a phone so family can say goodbye to a loved one who is dying. It is ok to be frustrated with the situation, to feel insecure, to love the family time, or the hobbies you’ve picked up. However, ultimately what everyone needs to remember is kindness, patience, and compassion. This is a time that will eventually pass, a time that will influence the future, a time that should not be forgotten or ignored. It’s ok to have feelings, it’s ok to be mad, and it’s ok to be happy. It’s alright to be the “now” you and the “future” you, just love yourself.
Well said – it’s a time to express our humanity and get through the highs and lows together, even if apart. Looking forward to a toast soon!