Will I Be Able to Return to Normal After the Pandemic?
What Will Normal Be? Can I Handle it?
I keep hearing how difficult the pandemic has been for people. Even those who have not lost loved ones to this terrible Covid-19 virus. It has been in fact terrible in so many ways. We have lost way too many souls during this awful time. It has caused so much pain for so many families.
Should I feel guilty or be ashamed that I have found some comfort during this time? Of course, the virus has created its own set of anxieties.
In December the approval of 2 vaccines brought much promise. Now, about a month later, the rollout has been less than stellar. There was no Federal plan. And the States are scrambling.
However, there is hope and help on the way. With the inauguration of Joe Biden this week, perhaps he can jump-start the vaccination program. We need shots in arms. Fast! Let’s get this under control. We need a leader who takes the pandemic seriously and listens to the science.
And please people, in the meantime, for God’s sake, be careful, social distance, and WEAR A MASK!!
So by now, you're thinking what comfort can possibly come from these awful times. Don’t get me wrong, I miss my children immensely and not being able to see them as often. My son and daughter are doing well, both are successfully independent which is what parents strive to teach them. I am proud of them. I miss not travelling to destinations, concerts, wineries, etc. with my wife. I miss friends.
Part of my comfort comes from my recent retirement at the end of August 2020. After working for 42 years I can finally enjoy a more leisurely pace. No more daily grind. I did enjoy my job as a Workers' Compensation Claims Examiner to a point, but it was demanding and challenging, some of which was good for me. But not all.
As a person who has dealt with anxiety and depression for many years, especially social anxiety, these times have been easier for me in that sense. Do I miss people? Some yes. Others no. Do I miss the drama, gossip, constant chatter? No. I like the quiet.
Of course, I am fortunate that I have a loving wife, my best friend, to keep me centered and positive. Also, my many hobbies keep my mind focused.
Social anxiety can be crippling. I want to enjoy seeing and interacting with people, but at times it is hard. I get tense and find it hard to relax. Don’t know why, it just happens. I am better than I used to be and I think being retired will help as I won’t feel as rushed and worried about work the next day.
So what will the new normal be like? Will we get back to the same hustle-bustle of pre-pandemic life? I hope so, but then again maybe I don’t. I sure hope we get to a point where we can feel and be safe not having to worry about catching the virus.
I do want to make an effort to spend more time with friends, some I have neglected over the years. Re-build friendships. I was just so busy. Now I have more time. I think that will help ease the anxiety. Practice makes perfect. Work through the issues.
I’m hoping I can handle the return to normal. I have felt so much more at ease anxiety wise during this pandemic. Quiet is my friend. Nature is my friend. However, I am willing to give it a try.
