Just Some of the Things I Miss

Summary

The author reflects on the myriad of simple, everyday experiences and social interactions that were taken for granted before the pandemic, expressing a deep longing for the return of normalcy.

Abstract

The text is a poignant reflection on the personal and cultural experiences the author misses in the wake of the pandemic. From the communal atmosphere of cafés and the joy of bookstore browsing to the simple pleasure of petting random dogs, the author highlights the emotional impact of these lost routines. The piece also touches on the significance of human connections, such as spending time with family, the camaraderie with work friends, and the vibrancy of social settings like restaurants and patios. The author acknowledges a sense of loss for the freedom and safety once felt in public spaces and a nostalgia for the inspiration found in retail therapy and the vitality of thriving businesses. The pandemic has not only altered these experiences but also brought a profound appreciation for the mundane aspects of pre-pandemic life.

Opinions

The author deeply misses the communal and social aspects of pre-pandemic life, such as the ambiance of cafés and the excitement of bookstores.
There is a strong emotional connection to the sensory experiences of the past, like the perfect vanilla latte or the smell of food in a restaurant.
The author expresses a sense of loss for the ability to engage in spontaneous interactions, such as petting random dogs or the camaraderie with work friends.
The pandemic has led to a newfound appreciation for the significance of small businesses and the cultural fabric they weave.
The author feels a profound sense of nostalgia for the safety and confidence once felt in public spaces, particularly for the well-being of vulnerable populations like seniors.
There is a recognition of the author's own naivety before the pandemic, a wistful acknowledgment that life's stability was once taken for granted.
The author cherishes the special bond with family, especially nieces, and the role of family gatherings in their life.
The text conveys a hopeful longing for the end of the pandemic and a return to the activities and interactions that brought joy and a sense of normalcy.

Bookstores

I miss walking into a bookstore with the anticipation of a child entering Disney Land. I miss the bookstore on Main Street over-cluttered with used books piled almost to the ceiling. I miss the bookshop’s owner knowing where everything is and his kind recommendations. I miss finding all the best authors in one section and knowing exactly where it is each time I’m there.

Petting random dogs

I love greeting dogs, I miss playfully greeting them with tails wagging and jumping up on me with enthusiasm. I miss playing with the big dogs and the little dogs. I miss seeing the joy from their person as I fawn all over the drooling, barking ol’ dog. I don’t miss the disappointing but polite ‘no’ when I ask if I can pet a person’s dog. I always ask first….always.

I miss my work friends and I miss my job

I miss the camaraderie and the comfort I feel with my co-workers. They know me well, and they know if I’m sad or if I’m happy.

I miss feeling significant in going to work.

I miss hugging my co-workers and I’m not a big hugger. I miss talking to, and helping people that come into my workplace.

I don’t miss being late.

Sounds of voices in a restaurant

The smells of food and the voices you hear as you enter a restaurant are part of a social ambiance. The friendly servers, joking with the servers and making them smile, good food and people watching are all things I miss. I miss going out to a restaurant with my grown children and seeing them dressed nicely for the occasion. I miss having Sake with my son. I miss having truffle fries with my daughter.

Shops and thriving businesses

I miss browsing through shops, although I’m not much of a shopper. I miss walking down the street and seeing a plethora of shops to walk into. I miss thinking about the things I wish I could buy. I miss thinking about fashion. I miss making a little purchase that brightens my whole day. I miss shopping with my daughter.

I already miss the small businesses that had no choice but to permanently close.

I miss people feeling safe

I miss the unsuspecting confidence we possessed walking down the street. I miss seeing people, especially seniors feeling safe to be outdoors. I miss seeing people without a mask.

I miss foolishly believing that our lives would never change. I miss not giving the potential of a serious pandemic enough consideration.

Ignorance is bliss and I miss that.

Just Some of the Things I Miss

A shortlist of everything I took for granted in a world before the pandemic

Cafés

Bookstores

Thrift shops

Petting random dogs

I miss my two nieces ❤

I miss my work friends and I miss my job

Sounds of voices in a restaurant

Patios and sitting outdoors

Furniture stores

Shops and thriving businesses

I miss people feeling safe