I sometimes feel like Alex in “A Clockwork Orange” with my eyes propped open, taking in all kinds of information. There is so much bouncing around on social media right now.
People are getting creative in their isolation- sharing funny memes and videos. Others are broadcasting their parenting triumphs. Talented friends are creating face masks for health care workers because we somehow are unable to provide the basics to our medical professionals. And the gratitude for said medical professionals, store clerks, janitorial services, etc. is on the rise.
I’m reaching out to my core group of friends to make sure they’re doing okay. Everyone’s anxieties are being tested, if not peaking. I’m trying to make sure my people are okay via texts and other distractions. I have friends whose businesses are on the line. So far, I don’t know anyone ill from the COVID-19. Obviously, I’d prefer it to stay that way.
I cannot keep up with all the ways I’m supposed to divide up my mind, heart, and creative spirit. Isn’t it enough just to keep my family safe and healthy?
But as my mind reels from seeing everyone’s good deeds, gratitudes, and shining moments- knowing that my friends are sharing the same struggles as I am- or maybe even more- I feel like we’re united in this. And that helps.
Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by everything I’m seeing/learning. But, I dare-not put my device away because I am actually hoping for updates on the situation. What are our next steps as a community, state, or nation?
I’ve read some say this pandemic is a message to slow down. to take stock of what we have. But, I can think of a thousand ways that message could have been delivered without putting the world’s population at risk.
Everyone has worries right now. Some more dire than others’. In the end, whether I stay connected or shut it down to self-preserve, what will matter is how I treated those around me. Physically and virtually. I believe this will be a universal judgement as the clock ticks on.
Auda Here 