We’ve all just been shut down due to the COVID pandemic. I had to run out to the grocery store to pick up some necessities, and also get out of the house to feel a semblance of normalcy.
The streets were much quieter than usual, of course. Some people were out for walks in the sunshine with their kids and loved ones. The folks at the grocery store were friendly and smiling. No one was pushing or shoving. In fact, the bread guy asked if I needed help with anything, then pulled two fresh loaves off the rack and safely handed them to me.
“Just got them in,” he said, smiling.
“Thank you so much,” I said. “Appreciate that.”
“Here to help.” And back to stocking the shelves, he went.
When I came home, I sat on my front steps for a little while to get some fresh air and think. People waved or said “hello” as they walked by.
“Crazy times aren’t they? Sure is nice to have the sun, though.”
Now, maybe it’s just a random, one-off experience today—and maybe I’m off my rocker—but it really made me wonder if this crisis that’s forcing us to isolate, might actually bring us closer in the long run.
It’s helping us slow down and pay attention to each other. For the first time in many, many years, it kind of feels like the world I grew up in. Slower, more thoughtful, less hectic, and a whole lot simpler.
In the middle of a world full of uncertainty and fear, it’s nice to see a little decency and kindness shine through.
With all the suffering right now, it helps to know that we’ll make it through this. And maybe, just maybe, we’ll be better to each other as a result.
Take a look at my other Reflections posts.