In the news and communities, there is some bad news as the pandemic continues to rage. This is sad, yet we must not give up hope or stop doing what it takes to be healthy and save lives.
As I watched stories of people who have lost their lives to COVID19 and pandemic-related stress, I feel terrible. With the vaccination here, and people's chance to stay safe in the face of the pandemic just around the corner, it pains me even more to see people contract the virus now. We all have to do what we can to stay safe--we can't stop using pandemic preventions such as physical distancing, good hygiene, and mask wearing. As for those facing the stressful situations related to the pandemic, situations such as lost jobs, health challenges, insuffcient funds, and challenged relationships, we have to do what we can to lighten their loads. It is not an easy time for many people.
Further, I've noticed that many of our leaders in multiple fields are beginning to show signs of pandemic fatigue with shortened tempers, exhaustion, and a bit of hopelessness too. This is not the time to overly criticize local leaders who have been doing their best throughout this year. Instead it is the time to be gentle with them and likewise ask them to be gentle and supportive of us.
None of us really know what to expect in one year, but I believe that most of us remain positive that in a year from now the worst of pandemic threats and struggles will be over, and we will be able to get together with our loved ones, travel, enjoy the arts, and engage in life more fully. Onward.