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OK: Onto tonight’s post!
I was taking a walk through the Meatpacking District the other night, and I heard this super loud, bumpin’ bass blasting in the street. Rap music was pumping out of one of the clubby-restaurants, and there was a big socially-distanced crowd outside, in masks, drinking beers on the street. I waved, they waved, we shared a laugh, and I was half tempted to go grab a cold one and join them!
But people are out! They have emerged from their quarantines, and ready to greet the new status quo.
And it. is. exciting.
And it makes me wonder. After 10 weeks now — over 70 days — of social isolation and distancing, we’ve adopted a new status quo — even if only temporarily.
We’re ordering groceries on line. We’re interacting a lot more via virtual communication. We’ve realized that a lot of those meetings really actually could have been emails. We’ve stopped shaking hands, and personal space is at an all time respect level-high. And to some degree, I think we’ve realized a) how important community togetherness — whether that’s church, or school, or workplace atmosphere — is vitally important, even though, we’ve come to find, that a lot of those things can be done from home.
And it makes me question: what of this new “status quo” that we’ve adopted out of necessity is going to “stick?”
What are we going to keep around long after this pandemic dies down?
Really — I’m asking you! I had such a fascinating time reading your comments several weeks ago about what you’ve learned from quarantine.
Now I want to know:
What do you hope to see continue in the new status quo?
Because though, on the surface, having groceries delivered seems great, you don’t always get exactly what you want. And frankly — it’s nice to casually bump into someone in the produce aisle for a quick chat.
So sound off in the comments!
What do you hope “sticks” going forward?
“This is what the Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” Ez 37:5
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136 responses to “The New Status Quo!”
I always enjoy your writing!
Thank you so much Greg!! 🙂
What do I hope sticks! That we all realize how much we took for granted going to Church and quit making excuses as to why we can’t! Too busy, too tired, etc…. That we never take for granted again, that Mass will always be there tomorrow, so why go today!
As far as the rest of it, it can all go away as far as I am concerned. When I go shopping I want to be the decision maker on what I want, what brand, and how much of it to get, that way I will not get things “I did not want.” I like thinking for myself, making my own decisions, but most of all, FREEDOM!
This country is based on those who some are in their grave, handicapped, and never saw their families anymore fighting for our freedom. Some made it home, by the grace of God, but endured much suffering as well.
This to me is also something this nation (USA) has taken so much for granted, people wanting socialism, thinking everything will be free from college to medicine etc… What they do not realize is that their paycheck will be squat for the rise in taxes it is going to take to “pay” for all of this. Nothing is free!
So Church and Freedom is what I want back, and the rest of it can go to where the devil lives! LOL! Love you more and God Bless, SR
Hi SR! Thank you for sharing these thoughts! I’m right there with ya. You’re right – I hope our desire for church sticks too! And that’s so true – nothing is truly free. I appreciate you sharing your heart! Hope you’re having a great week! Love ya friend! Hugs and love xox
Considering I’m a complete introvert with no family or close friends and have no car or daily job, nothing much changed for me except losing my temp job. It’s as if suddenly my awkwardness became the new norm. The world will eventually return to their normal, and I will remain.
I experienced the same type of encounter here in Hawaii as well. I think the one thing good that happened during this chaotic time was strangers being more helpful to others. People just offering their services free of charge to help the elderly with any needs that they may have. For me here it was seeing compassion more openly. I really hope that continues when things hopefully get back to “normal”. Thank for sharing your post!
Hi Mark! Thanks for sharing that! I love how helpful people have been too. I feel like for once we’re all on the same team!! Hugs and love xox
Lasting effect; hmmm.
911 changed us — people held doors open more often when entering or exiting a building.
The Vietnam War brought distrust of authority.
The 60’s — brought a cultural revolution: LOVE!
The “Cold War”; Korean War; World Wars I & II; yeah we have been altered each time.
The “Space Race” — that is a cool one; pictured a world, a globe of land and waters and clouds — without borders between countries or civilizations.
The Covid War — My hope: humans and nature will matter more than $$.
-Jeff
You’re so right, Jeff. – I was sitting looking at the one world trade building this evening with a friend and we were talking about 9/11 and how it changed things. I agree – humans over $. Hugs and love xox
Stores are open in Georgia. People are shopping but wearing masks. Since doing this, COVID-19 is down. I got my hair cut yesterday. It’s wonderful to look like myself again.
Hi Jack, thanks for sharing that! Haha oh my gosh Everyone I know is thirsting for that first haircut post lockdown. Myself included! Stay well! Hugs and love xox
What I hope sticks is the understanding of life’s fragility and the appreciation for what few moments we have here in earth ❤️
Yes! I love that Mauriel! I’m so with you on that. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Our church added two worship nights. While still not a substitute for small groups and home Bible studies, it has become part of my weekly rhythm. I now walk the neighborhood more and met more people, even if I have to stand 6 feet away
Oh that’s so awesome! I feel you. That weekly rhythm is so important to maintain. Yes! Thanks for sharing that! Hugs and love xox
XOXOXO back to you. Hope you have a nice Memorial Day weekend
Ditto to you!!!
I’ve gotten in touch over Zoom with many college friends- I hope that our conversations and “get togethers” stick. I’m also thankful for extra time with my college daughter home for a few months. I know that won’t stick, but I’m grateful for it in a beautiful way.
Oh that’s so wonderful Gretchen! I’m worth ya there. I hope it sticks too! Aww that’s so beautiful 🙂 time together is so precious! Hugs and love xox
I hope that people will be more flexible regarding working from home options. We’ve been able to see that many kinds of work can still be done from home, so I hope that continues to be an option after this pandemic is over.
I hope you’re right about that too! It’s been really encouraging to see and I think could be super beneficial for a lot f people! Thanks for sharing that! Hugs and love xox
Buying groceries on line, and free Disney!
Free Disney! Yes please!! Thanks for sharing those, I hope they stick too! Have a beautiful weekend! Hugs and love xox
Blessings and peace!🙂
xoxoxo 🙂 🙂 🙂
I hope going forward that more of us will live within our means; some can’t help living pay check to pay check, but many of us can. My grandmother, who lived through the Great Depression used to say, “Use it up, wear it out, make do, or do without.” This attitude can be helpful once again.
I hope so too, David. Thanks for sharing that. I love your grandmothers wisdom! I can Definitely learn a thing or two about that! Hugs and love xox
I hope Church at home sticks around, so many people who cant get to church for whatever the reason will be able to worship at home. And so many who don’t go to church are actually tuning is to these services. Face time with family too, I have seen my family in Sydney so many times since the lock-down and no airline flights (I live in Melbourne). Even for short calls they will use face-time rather than a regular call.
I hope you’re right! It’s a wonderful option for the home bound! I know when I was on bed rest for my ulcerative colitis, I had to go without mass and it was so sad! Virtual church – though not a replacement – is a great alternative for when we’re unable to attend!! Yes! And thank goodness for FaceTime! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
I’m basically a loner anyway so have no problem with distancing and shopping online. I do however have a problem with not having communion. We Canadian Anglicans are looking at solutions for the “common cup”; the bread is not as big a problem. Of course the Peace is got to go . Communion online just doesn’t cut it for me. I also want to hug and kiss my grand chilfren.
Yeah I miss communion so so so much and can not wait to get back to mass! And yes! I need hugs from my family too!! Hope you’re hanging in there! Thanks for sharing those things!! Sending hugs! Xox
Hi Caralyn,
You are so right that we may see a great change, even if for only a short time, on what is considered “normal”. What the long-term takeaway on this is remains to be seen.
As a member of the local clergy who had to be part of the decision making when it came to closing our church, I hope that it does NOT mean that people will become relaxed about church attendance and think that online church or no worship with community is important any more.
Also, I am a Red Cross Disaster Responder and hope that while we are now providing almost all of our Spiritual Care virtually, that this will not continue to be the norm.
One thing that would be nice to see is a new awareness of the need to be more self-conscious where it comes to personal hygiene. It never ceases to amaze me to see how many people neglect simple hand-washing in restrooms or before eating. Hopefully this will also continue in places of business as well.
After a long awaited return to seeing our favorite businesses opening up again, it would be nice to see this reflect on how people appreciate the personal touch of the restaurant owner, butcher, barber, clerk, etc. who couldn’t serve them for all this time.
Hopefully people looking out for others will continue.
I agree! That’s been a beautiful side of humanity that’s come about! Stay well and thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Being cleaner and not taking things for granted. Not everyone washes up in public restrooms. At least before. It should be automatic. I feel all people in food service should continue to wear rubber gloves. Including cashiers. Some don’t. I would like to see that change. I love your photo Caralyn. Very nice. Good post.
Yes Derek! Those things are so beneficial and NECESSARY if you ask me!! I’m ALL FOR hygiene!! Stay well! Hugs and love xox
You too! Feel good.
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Why are you so cool?
Like nobody’s fool
Who has NYC swag
And style in a mag
hahaha oh my gosh i love this! thank you Derek! Hugs and love xox
Glad you did. Enjoy your weekend 🙂
You too!
One lesson I learned is to enjoy what is in your reach today because tomorrow may not offer it. I will gladly use your amazon link for you 😊. Stay safe 🙏🏼❤️
Aw thank you so much Lisa, I really appreciate that. And yes! Every day is a gift and we should use it as such!! Have a beautiful Friday my friend! Hugs and love xox
I hope the compassion I’ve witnessed continues. We always seem to band together during the crisis and for a short time thereafter. Then, eventually, we return to our old habits of looking out for ourselves and those closest to us.
I agree!! The compassion – the kindness – the love for all humanity. It’s been a beautiful thing, all being on the same team! Thanks for sharing ! Hugs and love xox
Yes, it shows that we are capable of doing more and being better. Hugs and love xoxo
amen to that!
Checking on each other and making sure your friends are ok.
That’s all. Absolutely nothing else.
Oh my gosh yes! That’s been such a beautiful thing, Greg – is our concern and care for loved ones and humanity in general. Thanks for sharing that! Hugs and love xox
There has been a revolution here in the way permitted to open shops serve with bank teller style windows cashiers serve behind for protection and marks on floors to indicate the distance we should keep from each other to avoid forms of disease communication. You have to pack your own supplies after they’ve been scanned and payment scanners and market trolleys are immediately sanitized when pulled back from the parking lots. Deliveries to the door are left outside, the delivery person presses the buzzer and takes a photo as evidence he or she has delivered the consignment and you are messaged delivery has taken place. Even when this virus scare has passed I think that’s a good protection to carry on. Restaurants will have to accommodate to less crowded seating here which will probably increase prices so they can survive. Many more people are ordering on line and picking up their order at a delivery point facing the street. In a way it’s sad as I kind of liked being part of the herd in close proximity. Humans were meant to be social beings but it appears diseases of today are becoming much more lethal and quickly become resistant to medicines that work today and not tomorrow. Nature used to care for the huge population we’ve developed over thousands of years of history by systematically wiping out the surplus by plagues from time to time to give the environment a rest. However now we are a city living industrialized people interlocked by trade globally the thought of resulting economic collapse would disturb the world power structure and we try to resist nature. We can see the results in climate change. However the Creator watches and will not let this go on indefinitely. Before we finally destroy everything He will return and give us and the environment a makeover if that’s what we want. If we don’t than He has no other choice than to obliterate those who choose not to live under rules which are for the best interests of created beings.
Hi Ian! Thank you for sharing that. Yeah it is wild how there are markers in the floor to encourage social distancing, but I guess that is good in the short term here! You’ve offered so much powerful food for thought here. And you’re right – God will not prolong this, that’s for sure! Stay well my friend! Hugs and love xox
I know this whole thing has put us in “everything so virtual”. I hope that part tailspins when this is over, and that people actually appreciate more what is truly in front of them, where they are. I hope we can savor our real inperson everyday experiences again, BETTER than before. No more taking it all for granted and treating so much as “throw-away”. I would like us to stay “slowed down” more, like we have become. Maybe we can go back to taking things “in their moments and times more” and not have to madly consume things the way we were directed before. No more rushing seasons by businesses like pushing “back to school” on the 5th of July, Halloween items on the shelves in August, and all the Black bla bla through all of November, AND EVERY RETAIL EMPLOYEE SHOULD GET THANKSGIVING OFF! With our kids, don’t go back to the over programmed over stuffed activity schedule that gives them no time to breathe and be imaginative in their own development. I agree with better hygiene, and better regulations by anyone in any kind of food business. I hope we come out with a better appreciation for attending our churches too, and for the different times throughout the year that they celebrate. I would like to see more people go back to experiencing and appreciating actual restaurants again and not letting others do it all for them like door dash. Put an end to the ghost kitchens too. I would also like to see a better tolerance by people toward each other and each other’s diversity. Love you 😍 with big 🤗 hugs! 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌸♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Hi Miguel! Thank you for sharing this! You’re so right – I hope this whole slowed down pace sticks too. And amen! Tolerance and compassion towards people!! Love it!! Stay well my dear dear friend! Hugs and love xox
One thing I forgot is it would be nice to see so much of the natural beauty that has been able to rise while we have been paused, be able to keep thriving. Keep LA beautiful (no smog) let the sea turtles keep on breeding on the beaches, and how amazing is it that the famous hole in the ozone that was talked about so much years ago has closed up! I hope we can take better care of our world once we re-emerge from this. Many hugs and much love!!!
oh i so agree!! 🙂 that’s been so wonderful!!!
🤗🤗🤗😘😘😘
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Xoxoxo
🙂 xox
I loved your post, Caralyn. I was thankful to be at home from the beginning because at the time people were stick being quarantined in foreign countries, on cruise ships, and make shift hospitals on foreign shores to get them off the ships. It was scary enough this virus was coming, but we did not have to go through what these people went through, even if we did have to go on scavenger hunts for toilet paper. Here in NC we have been a sad example on social distancing and taking this serious. That’s not to say a lot of people have not tried and do care… I have and do. It’s amazing how people were actually essential workers too. Overall God has been very kind to us. Our numbers are growing still, but I keep praying for God to allow me to see His goodness even in this.
You and Italy have been my main focus of prayer quite a bit. Your governor was wise to take the steps he did to protect you, and strong to not let the political pride war keep him from focusing on your city. Poor Italy had so much death week after week that at one time they had to call in the military to take deceased bodies by truck load after truck load to neighboring area who willing opened up the crematory to help because Italy’s funeral homes and crematories were so overwhelmed. I thought of how many families last saw their loved just have a little cough or something, and then they not only die but how many thousands will now be looking for loved ones who had to be cremated, some even transported to those neighboring area. How will they find them???
I think of grieving New York and how much death they have had, even among their doctors and nurses. About the long refrigerated trucks storing the deceased. How even the politicians, famous celebrities, news anchors and even your neighbors in your building carried the virus and some even losing their fight. Your posts were my comfort in knowing that you were okay. Each day, each post was a blessing that I would thank God for… and still do! And your smile! To see you still carrying that smile along with your unwavering faith. I will be glad to see you be able to safely go the store for fresh vegetables (for those awesome recipes you post), to keep assignments for work to pay your bills (and keep posting), and am most eager to see you be able to visit your family in person and share some more pics with your mom! 🙂 And of course those posts you share from church! Your heart is always so open to what God is speaking to you. I love reading those posts. I pray we all take with us what God has given us in the time out He has given for each of us.
Me and God love you, Caralyn!
Hi Gail! Thank you so much for sharing your heart. You’re so right – God has been incredibly kind to us – and I know good will come out of this someway some how. And gosh, thank you for your prayers. I know, Italy’s outcome just breaks my heart. So tragic. And you’re right – the virus did not discriminate. Gosh thank you for saying that. Yes! I cannot WAIT to see my family. I miss then so so SO much. FaceTime is wonderful, but not the same as a big hug in person 🙂 thank you for blessing me with this comment tonight! Stay well friend. Praying for you! Hugs and love xox
I look forward to seeing the new family pics. 🙂
awww yes me too!! i can’t wait to give my little nieces and nephews the biggest hugs!!!
Those smiles are so precious! <3 Thanks for sharing with us!
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Hi there… glad to see you’re getting out a bit ❤️
For me, what has changed is a bit different. I realize that I don’t really miss seeing friends that much and doing the stuff I was doing. It all was simply a familiar routine. Sad yeah. I miss my family though!!! They are now a higher priority and so is writing. I plan to be more proactive in protecting my time 🙂
Thank you Paula! Yes! Things are starting to lighten up! That’s a great thing to stick with: protecting our time! Hugs and love xox
Perhaps we can continue to do a better job of respecting boundaries and trying to keep our germs to ourselves. Employers and schools can find ways to allow employees to work from home and students to attend classes online when they are not feeling well.
Thanks so much Michael! I think you’re so right – respecting boundaries is a huge one!! Hugs and love xox
I have been wondering exactly the same thing. I am hoping people become adept at social distancing. I love being able to walk around without people barging into me. I hope that good old fashioned manners make a comeback. Is it just me or were other people also taught by their parents etc to always let people out first before entering through a door for example.
Thanks so much friend! Oh I certainly hope that manners make a comeback!! Hugs and love xox
First let me say, “I love the book of Ezekiel 37. In 2015, I read stay in that book and worked from it. As for the question, “What do I hope sticks going forward?” I truly hope that the option to work from home especially for moms. I believe this time proved that it could be done. Another is the option (for those that would like to) allow their kids to learn from home in the event they may have been feeling just a little bit under the weather and could not attend class. That way they would not be marked absent or fall behind. I declare that the love of God within for sure stays rooted. The family bonding time…I pray that many families will continue to take that time to spend with their families (nothing else is more important) and continue the family bonding and for those relatives that we were not able to see, now just spending quality and precious time together is treasured and even the ability to gather and fellowship.
Thank you so much! I’ll have to look up that chapter in Ez! Yes! WFH is a huge blessing, as is virtual learning! And amen for family bonding time!! Hugs and love xox
Yes, I noticed that you had the scripture Ezekiel 37:5 at the bottom of your post. It reminds us just how powerful and loving God is. Many blessings to your day. Agape love and blessings to you sis.
Oh yeah! gosh – i didn’t recognize it in your comment! oops! yes! that is my favorite verse – it’s been the basis for my recovery! Amen – powerful and so loving! You too!! xoxo
The reality of this is the only things that stick from this ridiculous situation are the things we allow to stick. I will still shake hands if someone’s willing — I’ll offer. I won’t wear a mask unless a business owner asks me to — I certainly won’t if ordered by a government official to do so.
Live life the way you want to; the way you deem necessary. If you liked the way things were before the hysteria, live like that.
II Timothy 1:7
Hi Matt, thanks for sharing that. Powerful perspective!! Hugs and love xox
First let me say, “I love the book of Ezekiel 37. In 2015, I read stay in that book and worked from it. As for the question, “What do I hope sticks going forward?” I truly hope that the option to work from home especially for moms. I believe this time proved that it could be done. Another is the option (for those that would like to) allow their kids to learn from home in the event they may have been feeling just a little bit under the weather and could not attend class. That way they would not be marked absent or fall behind. I declare that the love of God within for sure stays rooted. The family bonding time…I pray that many families will continue to take that time to spend with their families (nothing else is more important) and continue the family bonding and for those relatives that we were not able to see, now just spending quality and precious time together is treasured and even the ability to gather and fellowship. 🙂
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In Ghana, life is bouncing back to normal. The concept of social distancing is rather new to us but we’re gradually infusing it into our culture.
Most of all, people have realised the need for proper hygiene and nutrition. And that, I pray, sticks! 👍
Hi Dan! That’s so great to hear! Yes- that definitely takes some getting used to! yes me too! ! Hugs and love xox
I can’t believe you spent all that time cooped up ! The city does not make it easy. I did all the shopping for my folks, so I was doing that for weeks (they are in their 80s), and now I am back physically at work three/two days a week. We had a grad party for my nieces today, just the immediates, it almost felt illegal, we have the space, and everyone has been isolated for months, but there is still the trepidation… but I think as we go we will see that the total lockdown was a bit extreme, needed because of the unknown but in the future putting into place restrictions (smart ones) was the better play, the vast majority of deaths were in nursing homes and long term care facilities… which was a horrendous mistake on everyone’s part, when we are young it is easy to dismiss the old, but their experience is not replaceable… because experience is a commodity that can not be sold or bought, it just is.
Hi David, thank you for sharing that! yeah, a lot of time cooped up! congratulations to your niece! i’m sorry that the celebration had to be impacted like that! Great food for thought! stay well! Hugs and love xox
Well let’s look at some of the things that have happened since the whole social distancing / quarantine started.
One of the biggest things that I noticed was that there were less cars on the roads during rush hour. Lets be honest, with today’s technology, most of the people with desk jobs, can actually get their work done remotely. They really don’t have to come into the office. With this current environment, most people had to contend with that style of working; and most employers needed to be OK with that.
So it would seem to me that all the stress of the morning commute can be mitigated for quite a lot of people out there. However, having worked in isolation myself, I will say that there are some instances when it is 100% necessary that I needed to be at the office. I imagine it is the same for others. But it wasn’t always the case. Most of my tasks could really be done remotely.
So it begs the question… why did we put up with that morning stress right at the beginning of our day? I guess that it is good for us to get into routines every morning. Habitual routines make for healthy mind. But still if knowing what we now know that working from home is a real thing and can easily be done… do we continue? Or do we go back?
Why commute just work at a cubicle, when you could probably have a home office which is far less stressful. And the time spent on the commute can actually make you more relaxed and productive.
Of course, there are homes, with small children that are more stressful than a cubicle at work.. I hear you parents.. but lets see this rationally.
Someone who is just going to go into an office or cubicle and sit there for much of the day, doing admin tasks at a computer, etc., doesn’t really need to commute for close to 70% of the time.
If at least 50% of the working population went to working from home, it frees up our roads, etc., to be used by those who actually need to be somewhere to work.. doctors, nurses, construction workers, etc.; people who don’t sit at desks all day.
Of course there are employers that do like to micro-manage their staff and hence always want to keep an eye. These are the ones that will demand their staff report to work, clock in and out on time, etc. They really don’t trust their staff to actually be working. I agree that there is a certain degree of trust is needed for this idea to work.. something sorely lacking in today’s world.
Trust is never given.. its earned. But in this climate, with social distancing, its a chance that we have to take.
At this point, I would like to take note of something my current superior has done and continues to do in order to make sure that we are all working on our respected tasks.
Prior to the whole social distancing, every morning at 09:00am, we always had a huddle. At this huddle, each team member would highlight a priority task that he/she needs to attend to for the day. By doing so, my boss basically understands who has the least on the plate and she will knows if there is a sudden urgent assignment, she knows who isn’t overloaded and can handle it.
This same routine went into effect even when we all started working home and it allowed us to continue to be productive.
My brother seems to think that this whole online shopping, working from home needs to become a norm going forward. There are key benefits. I just highlighted one earlier. It would mean that we are making use of technology that have been so easily available to us for years and we just never used it.
But there are experiences that I prefer to do the old fashioned way – like going to the market. Smelling the fresh produce, the spices, etc. If I need to have a meeting, I like the idea of conference calls, but nothing beats meeting someone in person; reading their body language, facial expressions, etc. You really get a better picture that way.
Thank you so much for this thoughtful response! You’ve really spotlighted so many changes! I agree – we really have ben making use of technology in a big way! And i agree – the less cars has really been beneficial – especially to the environment! But i’m with you – there’s a lot to be said for the “old fashioned way” and being able to pick out your own apples! haha stay well, and have a beautiful weekend! Hugs and love xox
My neighborhood now looks like my childhood neighborhood. Families, and couples, out walking together, riding bikes together, etc. One of the places I lived when I was in 4th & 5th grades was on the Trident Missile base in Bangor Washington. My mom, dad, sister, and I would ride our bikes all over the base. I don’t k now what it looks like now, but when I was a kid, it was WILD. Brambles of berries, deer trails, old dirt logging roads. We rode around until we found a patch of berries, got off our bikes and picked them until our fingers were sticky and red from the juice. We had a little Yorkie dog that ate them right off the vine almost as fast as we could pick them!
We would help mom can them and then enjoy, literally, the fruits of our labor.
I would like to see more of that for people today. Gaming, social media, etc. are not a proper childhood. It seems many kids do not get much of a childhood these days. I think the lockdown gave them more of that? I don’t know, really. Everyone’s lockdown is different and yet the same.
I hope kids, and parents, learned that they can entertain themselves, be creative, school their children better than public school.
It cracks me up to see people writing about how bored their kids are as if it were a tragedy. Welcome to everyone’s childhood before the age of the Internet, and before the industrial revolution. Before people championed for the rights of kids, and against child labor, there was no ‘childhood’ so-to-speak.
I would like to see people keep some of that up. Keep walking and waving at neighbors. Keep visiting at the corner of the streets, and on each other’s driveways. Keep being friendly and remembering that we’re all flesh and blood and have pretty much the same hopes, and fears. Keep being people who are living on the same street, in the same city, on the same planet. Keep being human.
Hi Melissa! Oh that’s so wonderful! that brought a huge smile to my face! yeah i was talking to a friend about how people are congregating in the streets, and it reminds me of when old fashioned nyc when people didn’t have air conditioning and would congregate outside and the kids would play in the fire hydtrants! you’ve brought up so many great points – i hope those things stick around too — the friendliness, the kindness!! amen! stay well! Hugs and love xox
There is less traffic now, so I hope that continues. Video calls for quick meetings as opposed to face to face meetings. A sense that we are all in this together…
I agree, Jim! I hope so too!! 🙂 it’s been great to feel that we’re all on the same team! i pray that continues! 🙂 Hugs and love xox
I love the parades of appreciation! Those warm my heart so much. I definitely miss hugging because I love people and hugging. I hope in general, that the genuine care for one another sticks around. I noticed I have to use my words more because smiling under a mask doesn’t translate. I wear a big smile everywhere I go, it’s so natural for me yet now I find myself having to use more words to Express my feelings because others can’t see it under my mask! Great upbeat post 😊❤
Hi friend!! oh yes – i love that enthusiasm of support for our health care workers too!! And amen – that genuine care has been so beautiful to see! more smiles and more hope! stay well and thank you for sharing your thoughts!!! have a beautiful weekend! Hugs and love xox
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Here in the sticks where we live, they take weeks to deliver, even the local mart isn’t nearly as fast to deliver as the broadband that takes your order. There’s a latency of a week or three. Lucky you.
Hi Pete – oh wow! that’s wild. talk about needing to plan ahead! good luck my friend! stay well and have a wonderful weekend! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
We moved out of the city and into the sticks now, so some e-things will be more of a challenge, but being out in nature with my bed literally one yard from a nature reserve ain’t bad! Thanks, keep well and a socially distanced hug for you and all here.
Wow that does sound idyllic!!
It is! Hear jackals call at night. All manner of birdsong.
oh wow
After giving your question some thought, I can’t think of anything that I hope sticks in the long term. I wrote toward the beginning of lockdowns about the irony of the technology that physically isolates us becoming that which keeps us together. One of your statements contains my worry.
“…we’ve come to find, that a lot of those things can be done from home.” Well, they can be done, but is that the best way? My company and many others spend a lot of money for travel, cars, planes, and gas, because they all know that nothing is better than face-to-face communication. Emails and teleconferences only get you so far. My worry is that we’ve become even more reliant on technology and less reliant on eye contact – in person! – and a warm handshake. Case in point, my daughter often tells me she “spoke” with her sister or someone else. I’ve learned she doesn’t mean she actually spoke to them; they texted each other. And that’s sad in my book.
I’m not a social media guru like you, so let me ask you a question: do you think that the tech that substitutes real presence for electrons has been given a boost that will continue? Will we become even more distant, because younger people become so accustomed to “e-being” that they don’t realize what they’re missing?
You enjoyed my card, and I’m glad of that. Here’s the question – have you written anyone? Parents? Siblings? No, I’m not asking for anything. I’m just asking if the more intimate means of communication will continue to diminish even though we get a taste of what’s better?
Churches that can only accommodate a mere 25% of normal attendance due to distancing requirements, no handshakes or hugs, being on Zoom instead of in a room… I honestly can’t think of anything that I hope will remain from this trying time.
Hey Jeff! thank you for these great thoughts! You bring up such a great point – there’s nothing that beats face-to-face interaction — be it in business, in social settings, in collaboration, in church — there is an electric chemistry that simply cannot translate via screen. Yikes – scary thought about the e-being. I will say that the younger generations have really taken to those online personas — especially in the areas of gaming. I am clearly not a gamer, lol, but i know that they all have their online-persona and do a lot of “socializing” via the gaming systems and headsets and whatnot. I wish i could have written people – but i was out of stamps and physically going to the post office was too big of a risk!!! You’ve brought up a lot of great points Jeff – let’s hope things get back to normal quick! stay well my dear friend. hugs to you and your girls! xox
The biggest difference to me was having my children around 24/7. Otherwise this lockdown was /is no different from me being on bed rest with both of my children. 5 months bed rest for each child. So this, this is something I can endure. One day we will look back at this and realize it was not so bad.
Oh wow that is really something. Your body is amazing!! You’re right about that. Thanks for sharing that! Hugs and love xox
More than anything else, I’ve rediscovered the vital importance of the church. I and my wife went last weekend and, despite there only being about 25 people in the pews, we realized that nothing compares with being in the sanctuary with other believers, singing hymns and hearing an encouraging sermon of hope.
Thanks Rollie for sharing that. I’m with ya there – church is a real blessing. Stay well! Hugs and love xox
Yeah, you do have to be extra careful with your immune situation. You know I wasn’t being judgmental on the writing thing, right? Just a discussion going to a larger point. By the way, I actually got a call back on an Eco-cast for a non-union short film! I’m very excited for it after being away from acting for almost 40 years! Yikes! Wouldn’t be happening without your kind support and direction. I’ll keep you posted on how it turns out. Stay well yourself! Hugs back!
you’re right about that! oh for sure! i know 🙂 i gotcha 🙂 you did?!?!?! OH MY GOSH CONGRATS JEFF!! That’s so exciting, and to be honest, I’m not surprised at all 😉 saying prayers for ya!
I would love for the hustle, busyness and hurry to stay low. We spend so much time going from one thing to the other that we rarely have time to stop, slow down and simply appreciate our time.
For me, I’ve had time to hit refresh and try some different things. Hardly turn the tv on or check social media. It’s allowed me to sit on my deck, read, listen to music, talk and it has been incredibly life-giving.
I want that to stick around. I have truly enjoyed my calendar being open!
Hi Frew! Thanks for sharing your thoguhts! I think you’re so right – this slowed down pace is really something i’ve appreciated too! right! stay well! Hugs and love xox
Things I hope stick around:
1) The knowledge that elected officials can and will let their power go to their heads; don’t let them. It makes for arbitrary rules and vindictive behavior.
For example, you may have heard that a 77-year-old Michigan barber opened his shop and is getting fined, had license pulled, etc. What you probably don’t know is that a Michigan sex club re-opened for business during that same time period. Social distancing?
2) People volunteering. My community has always been good about helping each other, but I hope that people who’ve never tapped into food banks and the like have a better appreciation for them and want to help.
3) Appreciation of the church community. The Archdiocese of Detroit started having Mass this week, but with social distancing. I got teary-eyed during Adoration over these weeks; I’ll probably be blubbering behind my mask.
4) Hygiene. This past school year, the tweens and teens didn’t cover their sneezes and coughs, wash their hands, keeping borrowed writing utensils out of their mouths and NOSES, etc. I heard from quite a few parents that they were working on good habits since they’ve been home. I hope they stick!
Hi J! thank you for sharing these greta ideas! Oh my gosh I am with ya – the volunteering! the appreciation for church! hygiene! very true! glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Love your content on here! Your blog is very inviting and colorful. Thank you for sharing about your own experience in today’s status quo! Keep it up! 😀
Oh gosh thank you Mike, I appreciate that! So glad you enjoyed it! Stay well! Hugs and love xox
Your very welcome! Stay safe and be well! Big hugs XOXO 😀
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Perhaps we might continue thinking of others~not in the sense of 6 ft apart please, you may have “it”~but aware that are choices DO impact others around us. We can isolate (which I love to do); however, I am seeing even my introverted friends long for some “connection”. This may be a wake-up call to reflect on what is truly important most in life. Having lived in my RV it has been easier for me to be forced at “simplicity”. Greed is contagious 😷 as is choosing “sides “ and polarizing situations such as these. If we don’t learn from history, you know the saying…I pray that unlike other crisis situations we have faced where unity,clarity, and collaboration work for just a bit, and then us humans fall back into our own selves, that this will “stick “ because sometime during this quarantine a miracle happened in someone’s life. He or she felt at rock bottom maybe asking, “Why is this happening?” And a nudge came from somewhere they’ve never felt before. Or from a place in their soul they never knew was even empty. And there in the middle of it all was God. And that maybe, just maybe, more are “awakening” to the miracle of the love of Christ. And those of us that have been quiet about our faith now feel we have been giving the best springboard to share the good news. Even if it’s smoking above a mask for a while, or waving at a distant, or leaving extra goodies for our UPS drivers,…however we choose to distance, the love of Christ narrows the gap and actually brings us closer~💚
Thanks for sharing these thoughts KL! You’re right- what’s thrust important has definitely come to the surface!! And amen – awakening to His love!! Stay well and thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Oh my! So many errors typing on my PHONE! Not smoking, but smiling (please don’t smoke with a 😷). But you get the “heart” of my response!
Hahah no worries at all my friend!
I’m learning to play guitar. I hope that I stick with it when it’s all over. I’ve always wanted to write my own songs/music. That’s a me thing. As far as the world, I’m hoping for a kinder place.
oh that’s awesome, John! Acoustic or electric? happy for ya! thanks for sharing that! stay well! Hugs and love xox
Acoustic
awesome!
I think supermarkets will always dominate, as there is so many things you just buy anymore, well for me anyways. Them things that are never on the list but you pick up anyway.
How will it change people, well, for those that never save it might change there view, and if it doesn’t then nothing will. Communities togetherness is a good positive. I guess in life its about seeing the silver lining. 🙂
Hi friend! I am so with you – community togetherness is such a positive thing to come out of all of this! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Wow! So many people chiming in with ways we can be better people post-COVID 19. I think you’ve started a mini-movement, Caralyn! If all these commenters hold on to the positive changes they value, think of the wide circle of influence that will benefit. I, for one, hope we maintain a grateful attitude for all the blessings we missed–long after they become “normal” again. Gratitude contributes to happiness and contentment; happy and contented people make pleasant company. Imagine a town/city of happy, contented people!
Hi Nancy! Yes, I love hearing what people are finding beneficial from this time of change! oh my gosh, you’re too kind, thank you!! 🙂 I am right there with ya – i pray an attitude of gratitude becomes the norm!!! 🙂 stay well and have a beautiful weekend! Hugs and love xox
Thank you for another brilliant post Caralyn!
What I hope to see?
I hope to see this willingness to improve on our relationship with God. Just this want to live a life of better quality that God offers.
Love and virtual hugs lol. 🤗🤗
thank you Lohluh! yes! i hope so too!! that would be a beautiful outcome! stay well! Hugs and love xox
What I hope sticks is family time! I’m big on family time, but we’ve had more the usually and I know some families and kids that have had family time that was way over due so I hope that sticks! I hope people have realized how much they need to spend time with their kids and enjoy life, not to rush through it and put family time off!
Hi Beth! oh gosh that’s such a good one! family time is the absolute best! thanks for sharing that 🙂 stay well, friend! Hugs and love xox
Hi, Caralyn! I’ve started sending cards and letters to friends who live out of the area. I definitely want to continue that!
I won’t take any hugs for granted. I haven’t been able to hug my mom in months! I’m so grateful that my family has taken all the precautions and staying safe. I’m also excited to spend more time with my 94-year-old Grandpa. He moved in with my parents at the end of March. And we’re going to see Al’s parents at the farm in a month, and I’m so stoked!
Hi Laura Beth, oh what a beautiful practice you’ve started! I love that so much. And amen – i miss hugging my mom so so so so much!!! stay well! Hugs and love xox
Thank you! A college friend who’s a chaplain started me on it. She’s given so much as a chaplain, and was recently trained as a CNA for her work at the retirement community where she is employed. Amen. Stay safe, friend!
you too!!!