First of all, this is not a post about how you need to social distance. It is not a post about washing your hands. And it is definitely NOT a post about how we don’t need to worry about COVID-19.
This is a post about the huge, hidden present we are all receiving.
Don’t get me wrong, this whole quarantine/social distancing thing is bizarre and a little bit scary. The world seems very small right now. But let’s think about this. Really think about it.
Most of us are no longer following our normal schedules: no more gyms, no more parties, no more school. The grocery stores are like a war zone, and we aren’t really supposed to be there anyway. We are spending a lot more time at home (which is why Zack and I now have an imaginary roommate named Karen to blame things on).
As a result of all of the closures, people are becoming better humans. Gyms/fitness instructors are offering free at-home workouts, and often live-streaming them. Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime are booming. It’s funny how you miss the simplicity of seeing familiar faces and being able to say “hi!” to your coworkers every morning. I can’t tell you the number of web- resources and teachers who have stepped up to help parents with homeschooling. All at NO COST.
As you know, I am a teacher. Our administrator has been emailing us every morning, just as she normally would, but now it’s just to check in and keep us updated. She suggested we set up Zoom calls or a Facebook page to stay connected with each other, and I think we might read a book together as a staff.
THESE ARE THE PRESENTS, GUYS!!!
Have you ever seen a time when people give so freely? Free homeschool materials. Free workouts. Free virtual tours of zoos, Disney, and museums. Free live-streamed concerts, plays, operas. Guys, my staff would never have done a book club if we weren’t on quarantine because we didn’t have time. We are all in the same boat right now, and the goodness of humans is being exploited. (Minus Karen. If she leaves her dishes on the table one more time, damnit she’s getting kicked out).
Every single person on earth has been given the same set of presents right now. The opportunity of time, kindness, and solidarity. Italy is hurting, but their people are singing together from their homes. The US is out of school, but we are equipping our kiddos with everything we can.
I’ve heard, more times than I can count, that these are unprecedented times. So, let’s make this new adventure one that defines us as humans. The time that we all got better.
*Disclaimer, I am not trying to make light of this situation. I know that it is very serious. I am just trying to find the positive because I know a lot of people are having trouble doing so.*