“It turns out I’m absolutely terrible at staying away from you.”
―
https://meanderingpassage.com//wp-content/uploads/images/2020/10/EBM-20140703224703-3.jpg
I wonder what the longterm social and individual emotional/physiological impact from this COVID-19 pandemic will be and how long any residual effects will last? It’s especially terrible for those that have lost family or friends and my heart goes out to them.
It’s coming up on the holiday season, and there have already been discussions in our house about what we’re going to do over Thanksgiving and Christmas. These are normally holidays in America where there is a tradition for family, friends, and groups to celebrate with gatherings and meals. We also have good friends who we’ve not seen in over a year, arriving back in the area, which raises the question of what is safe. Will they want to get together, and what is the safest way to do so in winter months when outdoor options may be more limited?
It’s difficult planning events with people far in advance, especially when the latest pandemic models and experts see the possibility of another major surge of the virus, peaking in December or January with the horror of almost doubling of deaths in the U.S. Thus far, my answer has been, yes, we want to get together. Still, we’ll need to do so as safely as possible, and we’ll have to wait and see what the immediate circumstances are at that moment. Yes, it’s a delaying tactic but also pragmatic.
Not to overstate the situation, but, after almost eight months of social distancing with some level of self-isolation, I feel somewhat emotionally/physiologically battered. While these “scars” may not be severe, I don’t think they will go away for a long time, even if the COVID-19 becomes less of an issue.
Part of this may be that I’ve lost a good amount of trust in people. We’ve witnessed a segment that put their own warped vision of individualism and rights above the safety of all. Yes, I know they always existed, but they now have openly demonstrated the scope of their abhorrence and disdain. I won’t go into other despicable behavior and beliefs we’ve been subjected to by many from this same segment. However, I’ve also seen or read of people who have gone that extra mile with unselfishness, kindness, and helpfulness during these trying times.
I acknowledge my feelings on COVID and related countermeasures have been heightened by being in a more endangered age group. But for certain, this pandemic has caused some permanent changes for and in me, some good and some less so.
What about you?
Here’s my take on the above image and this post; your “mileage” may vary. I chose the photo and created the image for this post because it spoke to me about the topic and moment. The empty tables where people use to sit close to one another speak of days long lost. In chairs now empty, you can almost hear the echo of the conversations and laughter from times past. A couple having a drink alone, him trying to be in the moment and relax while she is ever watchful for those that might approach. There is a feeling of tension in the image communicated by the woman’s sharp stare, the edgy color pallet, and a textured overlay. The old days, gone and decaying.
In total transparency, this photo was not made during the pandemic or even recently. It was made during a late night/early morning walk in Segovia, Spain, back in 2014 at an outdoor cafe. Still, the scene carries the story.
There is lots to like here Earl. The scene, the look on the woman’s face, the composition, the colour grading; it all comes together perfectly. It gives off a duo-tone, pop art vibe, but with added style and charm which makes for a modernised Toulouse Lautrec styled, photo-impressionistic art piece. Very nicely done.
Much appreciated, Cedric.
I like the image, my friend!
I also have been deeply affected by the isolation and actions of others. It’s a mix of anger, fear, and a loss in the trust of others. I am at a place where I need to know what I feel is best for my small world and then live it to the best of my ability.
I noticed the buried anger last week when a bathroom drawer came out of its tracks and was stuck. Played with it a while then threw a bit of profanity at it and jerked on it. It came free but in five separate pieces. I immediately got down on myself for how I reacted. Later I looked into the root cause for my outburst. They do not happen near as often as in the past. It really is all about the fear of our world right now. The bathroom drawer was only the trigger to set me off.
I have become more aware of those around me, especially those on the margins. I myself being drawn towards them. I’ve always struggled with the capitalistic attitude of our country. It is more prevalent now. The hatred is more prevalent.
The self isolation for me has been positive and negative. Without the coffee shops I have spent more time in the natural areas and loved. I’ve begun to read poetry and even attempt my hand at it. I’ve read much more and journaled more. I’ve finished the book for my children and started a couple more. On the negative side I have been missing hugs from friends and family, that human physical touch. That has been difficult for those who are single. And, of course, the freedom to go out and mingle with people.
I journal about this very subject on a daily basis and uncover something within me.
From the outside looking in, you seem to be handling this with a positive attitude, Monte. Your journey and path toward self-awareness during this period is admirable. I can identify with these negative feelings you describe, but I can only imagine it degrees harder in this solo. There are certainly days when I’m depressed with anger just below the surface. Even on good days or good weeks, there’s still this small naggy little voice in the back of my mind reminding me of the situation and not to be careless. It gets tiresome. I appreciate your honest and open voice here. I didn’t know if anyone would admit to common experiences and feelings. It should be obvious I have no secrets or advice on dealing with all this. Much like you, I’m trying to find positive things for building a new norm. The new house has helped provide some needed stability, and I’m getting back into my photography and nature.
I always look forward to your written thoughts, photos, quotes, and poems on your blog. Thanks, Monte!
First of all, I really like the image here. It reminds me of an ink block print in many ways. And I love the color matching. I’d like to think those empty chairs are people that are up and dancing or socializing – but who remembers that?
I think we are about to see a lot of major changes going on due to this pandemic. I am already hearing from people how their offices are thinking about how work-from-home is going to be a more permanent thing or doing alternative days for people to come into the office. Personal desks may be a thing of the past as office space sharing becomes more common. I know GM implemented this years ago already – community desks instead of your own. With perhaps less face-to-face interaction for the foreseeable future, it is easier for our society to lose some judgement in communications as we see in social media. More hostile, more combative. I wonder how long it will take for people to adjust back to normal or if they will at all. Much goes through my head these days… and then it’s night and time to go to sleep. Up and into another day.
Yeah, I can see the ink block print resemblance. Thanks, Mark.
Even though I knew better, I’d been feeling this as a short-term situation. But, somewhere recently that rolled over to the mental acknowledgment it’s definitely long-term and demands permeate change. While there will be an after coronavirus, there’s also the fact that there are many deadlier viruses out there waiting for just a chance to jump species or host and the major disruptions caused by climate change is making that all the more probable.
My cheery thought for today. But you’re right, day-by-day! ;-)