Well, 2020 isn’t turning out like any of us expected, but while the emergence of the Covid-19 virus has had tragic consequences for many around the world, it has also highlighted the bravery, resilience and generosity of individuals and communities in how we have responded.
There is a bitter sweetness in the realization that it often takes a critical event to show us where our priorities lie; Appreciation for our essential workers, for understanding the importance of having our basic human needs and comforts met, for family and friends and - surprisingly - for modern technology and social media.
Although I’m considered to be in a high-risk category, I’m fortunate in that I’m an introvert by nature, and isolating myself at home has not been difficult for me - aside from missing hugs with my children and grandchildren.
On the up-side, it has allowed me to spend more time doing what I love - writing. So while the world slows down and takes a breather, allowing nature to flourish and families and friends to learn a new appreciation for each other and to find creative ways to remain connected, I write - and encourage others to do the same. Words can be very powerful things - and although we have lost a certain amount of our freedom during this crisis - we will never lose the freedom of self expression.