by Abbey Algiers
As I spend each day writing and teaching remotely from my home, I often think about what I’ll do when this quarantine lifts. My husband has the same thought. Like the rest of the world, our routines have been disrupted, and while we’re so grateful to have jobs, the way we do them has changed. We both miss our co-workers, I miss my students. I also miss my Saturday runs with my bestie, and later doing things like shopping, getting my hair done, and other “essential” (but really non-essential) things. Most of all, though, we miss our parents, kids, and friends. In reality, I can do without most of the “things” I miss, but not being able to hug my 92 year old mom and 94 year old dad, and other family has been the absolute worst.
So really, at the top of my “after the quarantine list” is to SEE MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
To expand on that top priority, let me say that when I do see these people, I plan to be 100% with them. I cringe at the thought of how many times in the past I was “with” these people, but also in another world, namely - my phone. I find it ironic that now this very device is my only means of connecting with those I love the most.
Who would have thought?!?
The quarantine has made me think about how I want to change after things get back to normal. For example, if I’m at a birthday party, you can bet I’ll be at that party instead of snapping pics for my virtual report later. If I’m golfing, I’ll stay on the course, with my foursome, focused on my game. I won’t be on my phone, and I’ll try not to be preoccupied by worries off the course or thinking about what I’m going to do next. Whatever I’m doing, I’m going to try my best to appreciate the people and the moment.
During the quarantine, I’ve also realized that some of the things I thought were so important to buy and/or do, are really not that important. I’m learning that more can be done from my home, giving me more time to spend with others later.
So, the question remains, what will YOU do after things return to normal?
It’s time for some “home”work! (Remember, back in the first paragraph I mentioned I was a teacher. )
“Go to my grandma’s and eat one of her chocolate chip cookies while I sit at her kitchen table” might be one… or you could just say, “Visit my grandparents”
“Talk to my friends outside school again.” “Go to the driving range with my teammates.”
These times are hard in so many ways. But, there’s beauty to be found in even the most troubling times, and these moments give us the opportunity to reflect and think about who we want to be when we come out on the other side. It truly is up to you, the actions you take and the path you follow. The good news is that you can plan for that new path today and consider your many, many options for a brighter future.