I wish we’d had the capabilities to go into hibernation for a few months last year only to wake up and find that a virus had come, but since it had nowhere to go, it moved on to another planet. This is a disaster of epic proportions and like everyone, I am sick of it. What kind of memories will we have from the COVID-19 pandemic era? It can’t be all bad, and there are some positive things that will come out of this. I can think of a few examples and I’m sure there are many.
That said, we cannot diminish the devastation created by the virus and the effect it has on our well-being. The loss of lives, the loss of loved ones and the failing businesses are so tragic. On top of that, there are the mental health issues and dramatically altered education for our youth, and so much more. It is truly unlike any time in my lifetime and I am no spring chicken. Quite the contrary.
Some of the positives that come to mind personally are new-found connections with our pets. More time spent with them has created a closer bond as a result. I see at minimum 10 times the number of people walking their dogs in my neighborhood as there were pre-pandemic.
Many people adopted shelter dogs and cats which is a win-win for shelters, animals and owners. The companionship of having a pet during a time when confined at home is a pretty great thing.
People took up hobbies and honed their skills in things they already had an interest in, or thought about pursuing, prior to the virus. Guitar sales have exploded. New ways to pass the time were developed. Some wrote books or explored their artistic talents. Others finished those projects that had been lingering for years.
Some of us binge-watched shows on television that we never had time to watch. For example, my wife and I took in the entire six seasons of the hilarious show on Netflix called “Schitt’s Creek.” In a matter of less than a week we had seen all 80 episodes and that was time well-spent. Lots of laughter, which is a good thing.
People got better at cooking as there was no alternative. Restaurants being closed forced more of us to cook every day and try to improve our skills by being more creative and trying new recipes.
Restaurants being limited and closed has been devastating for so many. I know when they are completely open again, we will be anxious to let them know how much they were missed and show our appreciation for the fine service and culinary delights they provide.
Gardening became more popular and lots of people started growing vegetables and herbs and tasting the benefits of home-grown meals. I look forward to planting mine in the spring.
Musicians who make a living performing and entertaining have found creative ways to stay busy. Professional musicians were severely impacted. Some have recorded new material and released albums, and many took to social media and provided awesome content. Musicians practiced more and all await the return of live music, which for many is the way they make a living. Upon the return of concerts and live music, I hope that we support them like never before.
One thing to be thankful for is that we get to enjoy living in this amazing place, and while others are stuck in subzero temperatures across the country, things remain pretty mild weather-wise here in comparison.
We all have those things that help us pass the time and enjoy our lives to whatever extent we can. Having to spend more time at home has forced a temporary change and some of those things are positive, others not so much. I look forward to the days when we can go see live music, take a safe vacation, hang out with friends, and make more memories besides the ones in the confines of my own house.
Like the old saying, “You don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone.” We all miss so many things that were taken away, but with any luck at all, we should begin to get back some of those things we cherish and probably took for granted. Here’s to good times ahead!