A Pandemic that Changed the World
It’s been almost a year since my partner first warned me of this thing called COVID-19, a rampant and highly infectious and potentially fatal coronavirus. We had planned a trip back to the continental US to see his family in February and he insisted that we purchase and wear medical grade masks while in enclosed spaces like the airport and on the plane. I fought him on it, arguing that this too shall pass and that it was some fluke. Having lived so far with hardly a doctor’s visit every half decade, I’m quite possibly the exact opposite of a hypochondriac (to my fiancé’s dismay) and may possibly err on the side of irresponsibility. But he was persistent, and so sadly obliged with my tail between my legs. ‘People are going to look at us weird,’ I thought, and they did. People looked at us with befuddlement, with judgment, and with concern. What’s wrong with them? Are those people wearing masks because they’re sick or because they’re hypochondriacs? But boy, am I glad I listened.
So much has happened since then. So many poignant events in and around this unexpected pandemic. We have, on all corners of the world, gone through waves of closures and reopenings, getting used to a new norm, then newer new norms, and recalibrating our decision-making, and navigating loss, depression, and isolating amidst the current climate. Through all this, many have lost homes, lost family or friends, lost jobs or lost themselves. It feels almost disingenuous or unjust to make short references or broad statements like I just did because I am well aware that each of us is going through this in a unique way. Despite all this, there are still other crazy things happening in the world, also other crazy good things happening in the world, like people getting married, and having kids, people pursuing their passions, learning new skills, helping others and cultivating love and relationships in ways we may not have imagined. While some days feel hopeless or glum, there is always a silver lining to be found. Where we might find this silver lining is as unique we are, but it’s there and no one finds it with their eyes closed. Remembering we aren’t alone, and also looking to outstretch a hand to someone who may need it might just be the thing.
Finding Joy in the Small Things
Here are some of the things I have found joy in this week. Hope you found your silver lining too.
The Star tarot card I pulled for 2021, symbolizing hope, inspiration, and positive change. A giant, juicy, grapefruit, fennel, and kale salad I made for lunch. Komorebi, which in Japanese means “sunlight shining through the trees”. Tiny whimsical mushrooms I found on a log in the yard. A quiet moment spent reading “The Spirit of the Garden” by L. H. Bailey and this purple freesia that smelled like heaven.
