As the nation has amped up its safety measures, and as people conform to their new normal, I’m sitting here realizing that nothing has really changed for me. Yes, obviously, the world is experiencing something unprecedented and a lot of people’s lives have been permanently altered. I am only speaking of my own personal life and what I experience directly in front of me, seen through my own eyes.
Nothing has really changed for me.
I am an introvert. Most of the precautions brandied about by the government, media and word of mouth are things that already encompass my day to day life. I hardly ever go out to clubs or bars. I spend time with my family, but not as much as other members of the family. I can get social at times, maybe four times a year, with an actual desire to out and being around a lot of people. Most times, however, my preference is stay home, hopefully alone. In this respect, my introversion has made it easier for me cope than most others. The only thing that has actually changed for me is that now I cook more at home than I have in a long time. Other than that, my day to day life has been status quo.
Well, the park that houses my usual exercise trail is closed, so I had go to a more populated one, which kind of defeats the purpose for closing the other one. So I guess that change has affected me but that is trivial compared to the sweeping changes that have occured in many lives around the world.
I am grateful to live in an area where the neighbors are far apart, allowing me to go outside without worrying about staying six feet away from others. I can walk my driveway for exercise and get fresh air uninhibited. I wasn’t working a regular job when the virus arrived (I am a writer than has the fortunate ability to do all my work from home), so I was home pretty much all day anyway.
I am not blind the seriousness or the virus. I am aware enough to understand the ramifications it will have on society maybe years into the future. I am only expressing my gratitude to be in a less risky environment.
Hopefully, the virus can be contained just enough to keep my way of life in existence.
Jay Owens 