Dear Universe,

It’s me, Michele…

Dear Universe,

As I spend another day in Shelter In Place, with the thoughts of this continuing until June 1st (in my state), I continue to connect with sites and people sharing how we are indeed moving into a NEW normal.

That life as we know it will not be the same. Things will change and for the better. I really haven’t heard much on the specifics of what this great change will be. I appreciate anything you might want to share with me Universe.

One thing I don’t want to change — EVER — is touch.

I miss touch…

My hope is that what is happening now won’t lead us to great distancing once SIP is lifted. As the visionaries share how this virus is bringing the world together, it’s all done from a distance.

Distance… I remember quite awhile ago, way back — before March 17, 2020, I had never heard the terms social distancing, or shelter in place. Remember those days?! Doesn’t that seem like such a long time ago?!

Now they are common phrases. And one of the terms has even been questioned. I was at Trader Joe’s and noticed a sign that they had up stating “We are always social, but we ask that you keep a physical distance.” I liked that, but physical distancing doesn’t seem as catchy a phrase.

I used to stop at the grocery store after work. And it seemed I was always stopping for something. Sometimes it was frustrating — an inconvenience.

Now when I do need essentials (Note: look at how I am validating my outing to the store…when I need essentials…is this the NEW term for shopping…), I choose a time when I think it won’t be too busy, as some of the stores I shop have lines outside to get inside.

Did I ever think in my lifetime I would be standing in line to get into a grocery store?? My son mentioned that some of the workers are complaining of their safety so it might come to a point of curbside pickup or delivery only. Where we might not be allowed in.

Might I lose the ability to pick what I want…to touch and chose items I am paying for? To not be able to pick what I deem fresh, ripe or best for me?

Universe, I’m not an online shopper. Okay — I do buy some things online, books for example. Yes, I said books. I love books. I like the touch of a book, to physically turn the pages, to hold and feel the weight in my hands. To see how far I’ve read or still need to read. Online books are just not the same.

To buy clothes, shoes, linens, cooking equipment , etc— I like to feel things. Try on things. Touch and hold, inspect and decide. Is it soft enough? Strong enough? Is the color right? Will it hold up over time?

I get a feel for items when I get to feel the items.

Now we are made to feel that what we touch might have the virus on it. To sanitize everything. To not touch our face in public with our dirty hands…

I realize online shopping is nothing new. It’s a choice, and for many a popular one. I still want the ability to go to the mall. To touch and feel.

And speaking of going out, my state is also adding a new requirement, starting this Friday. We have to wear masks in areas where we might come into contact with others. Up until May 1st, it’s been our choice to wear a mask. I realize it’s for our safety, but this is bothering me.

It’s taking away our choice — it’s forcing us. And Universe, for how long?

When will it be okay to go mask free? I’ve been told that other countries have done this for years — we are not other countries is my reply…

I started to realize there are two things about a mask that bothers me:

• It covers one’s mouth and a good part of the face. I like to see someone’s face — see someone’s smile. Know someone is even smiling. It’s a way I get a feeling on someone.

I’m known for smiling — I love to smile… I love to walk around with a smile and see how many others smile back…

• I am all about wellness. And I started to realize that a mask represents sickness to me…or that I’m at the dentist.

Will I be required to wear a mask once back at work? It appears so and that will be challenging as well as physically hot.

I’ve also noticed Universe, that I am starting to think and say things I never, ever thought I would. Like the day I was at the park and a group of boys were playing basketball. How strange to think “They shouldn’t be doing that, they are breaking a rule.” And when I mentioned it to my son, he thought if word got out, it might force the park to close.

Yes, Universe — close… I can’t believe we even had that discussion. My son lives in an area with a beautiful man made lake which has a paved path all around it. Too many people started walking, so now it’s closed…

And my neighbor down the hall who on Saturday night had a party. A party Universe during SIP! They were noisy, they were having fun. I wondered if the police would be called.

Started me thinking — how will it be when we are allowed socialize with others? Restaurants, malls, movie theaters, etc. Will we be thrilled to have that freedom — or will we be restricting ourselves?

I’ve already noticed that the younger generations are more anxious. Many suffer from anxiety and one day (a few months back) I heard a couple of millennials that I work with sharing what anti anxiety prescribed meds work best for them and what ones didn’t….

My daughter’s friends are afraid to leave their homes. To even go for a walk. We all need some fresh air and the sun! It’s great for our immune system as well as mood. The sun helps our bodies produce the important hormone vitamin D.

And we need contact with others once again. Right now we are on a personal journey on public forums. It’s required at this point and that type of interaction is appreciated.

That being said, I do miss eye contact, a shared laugh, touching an arm — a hug. Seeing a thought resonate with someone, a facial expression. Looking someone in the eye and really connecting.

Plus touch is an important part of our physical and emotional health. It triggers the release of hormones such as dopamine and oxytocin. It reduces the amount of cortisol (the stress hormone) in our bodies.

And hugs have health benefits. It reduces feelings of sadness, slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure. It reduces anxiety and increases compassion.

Please know I understand the need now for what is happening and what we are required to do.

I’m reaching out with my want — and hope for something more. I’m wondering how things will be, and what the NEW normal will look like.

And planning to not take for granted things that I took for granted…

…Aha! — there’s my silver lining! Why I love journaling, it helps me process. So many things in daily life that we take for granted, until it’s taken away or limited.

Can we appreciate the little things?

Really appreciate the freedom when the restrictions are lifted?

One last story Universe before I close. The other day I saw in the hall a neighbor of mine who is moving. She’s been here a few years longer than I have. I don’t know her well, we have brief chats when we see each other. She always been very nice. I was so happy to see her to say goodbye. She’s elderly and moving closer to her daughter.

As we parted, she surprised me by giving me a hug! I’m a hugger but in these times, I was not expecting that! A thought crossed my mind that she was taking a chance —

and I was so touched that she did…

Until next time ~

Sending you light, love — and hope that my words touch you, from a distance.

Be Well,