Forever Embedded In Our Memories

This has been a very difficult year in so many ways for everyone not only in this country, but around the world. We have all had to endure tough days filled with apprehension and fear while we struggled through the worst health crisis the world has seen in 100 years. Although there is still work to do to bring this to an end, we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel. It is comforting to see some semblance of normalcy once again with summer arriving.

In the midst of the pandemic regular healthcare visits came to a screeching halt, and getting answers to our current or new health issues became difficult as we could no longer see our providers in person. Eventually we were introduced to telehealth visits and after a learning curve for both providers and patients, we all adjusted and found these visits could be more convenient and also productive.

The isolation from family and friends was exhausting, and I wondered at times how those who lived through the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-1919 survived without the luxury of our technology today. How fortunate we have been being able to video chat and see the ones we love. It may not be the same as receiving a physical hug from them, but it did help get us through.

Many people lost their jobs as businesses shut down, and struggled to find a way to pay the bills and feed their families. Without childcare available they were unable to go to work even if they found other employment. Those who were able to switch over to remote work were extremely fortunate to remain employed. The essential workers bravely remained on the job, risking their health and that of their families. Every day they went to work to ensure we all had the necessities needed to keep our homes running. 

Children were suddenly removed from school and all social interaction with their friends. Their daily lessons were on Zoom and parents struggled to keep them focused while many of them worked remotely. On the other side of the spectrum, teachers had to find new ways to keep students engaged and participating in class. Unfortunately, at times it was frustrating for students, teachers and parents.

Our healthcare workers selflessly gave all they had to treat, and ferociously try to save those infected with the virus and on death’s door. For many patients these angels either brought them back to health, or were the ones they spent their last moments with. These saints who worked for hours and days without sleep are truly heroes, and we cannot thank them enough.

In the darkest of these days we were reminded of how much kindness and compassion there is in our neighbors, and even strangers. The thousands of stories, told and untold, of people who went out of their way to help others should never be forgotten. If we have learned anything from this past year, this goodwill and charity should continue. There are always those less fortunate that can use a helping hand.

As we move forward and get back to the lives we were living pre-pandemic, we need to make the effort to be the best of who we are. This very difficult year has made us clearly aware that none of us is immune from tragedy, that life is very precious, and how important it is to treat one another with dignity and respect.