Like so many of you, I’ve been staying home for the past few weeks. Between the news with almost hourly updates on the coronavirus and numerous video meetings, I find there is much to acknowledge.

Never before (how many times have we heard that?) …

… have I gone so long without a haircut. However, I have cut my own bangs and am seriously considering checking out if YouTube has videos on how to cut the back of your hair. If that doesn’t exist, then perhaps the Carol Brady (Brady Bunch) hairstyle will be back in fashion. I truly appreciate those with the talent to cut hair and make it a thing of beauty.

… have I shopped wearing a mask. I wonder how store employees are dealing with this phenomenon – only months ago wearing a mask into a store was either due to subzero temperatures outside or the place was about to be robbed.

… have I had to cook three meals a day for so long a period. A three-day weekend is more my limit – not thirty.

… have I had a greater appreciation for the jobs we all do. We always knew that first responders and medical staff were heroes, but so are cleaning companies and janitors. Now the spotlight is on delivery people, grocery store workers, mechanics and those deemed essential – and how integrated how all our jobs are! The web of commerce and services has never been put on display in such a manor than these days of a pandemic.

… has my mind been more scattered. Perhaps it is because there is less structure in my days. But today, I’ve been able to finish one book, and almost finish another book that is waiting for my review. What a great way to close out the week!

… have I found it more comforting to see and talk to family members even if it is through video chatting. (Meeting this way saves on having to provide snacks for everyone.)

… have I spent such an odd Easter Sunday with no grand meal to cook or family coming over to enjoy it. Except, perhaps the Easter I spent home alone with Dad because I spent the day before running and playing in the sunny 60-degree weather, celebrating the promise of summerlike days, ignoring my mother’s calls to put on a jacket. I woke up with a sore throat and cold.

… have I had more adult beverages in one month. (I’m not complaining!)

… have my closets and dressers ever looked so good!

From my view inside looking out, I see how like cream, the goodness in the world’s citizens, rises to the top. Like sunlight, our talents spread laughter, serenity and banish isolation. Like the strongest glue, the bond of love holds family and friends even closer when the miles separate us.

Stay safe everyone!  One day hugs will come back in style.

     – mb