This pandemic will pass
Dear Amy: I have noticed in many responses about COVID-19, you and many others have said things like, “When this is over, we can get together,” or, “When we reach the end of the virus, life will return to normal.”
We are now two years into what was supposed to last for 14 days. When is everyone going to realize that this virus is never going away?!
For me, with the exception of work, I’m completely isolated from the world — except for the internet.
I would love to get out like I did before the pandemic, but I don’t see it ever ending.
Why keep people’s hopes up and not prepare them for what could be forever?
Over It and Hopeless
Dear Hopeless: As of this writing, we are experiencing an alarming surge in hospitalizations, as the pandemic stretchesinto its third year.
Yes, the end seems to be receding into the distance with every passing complication, but the reason to keep people’s hopes up is because the pandemic WILL end, just as the pandemics that came before it also transitioned from pandemic to ”endemic.”
This virus is not going away but the pandemic will shift into endemic status, and the virus causing COVID-19 will become one of many viruses that sweep through the Earth’s human and animal population, mutate and sweep through again. Vaccinations, medications and remedies treating symptoms will help people to cope with the virus.
Te World Health Organization says the only viral disease we’ve ever eradicated is smallpox. The last remaining smallpox pathogens exist in laboratories.
Viruses causing other pandemics and epidemics still exist but we live with them, mitigating the risks.
After the tragedy of 9/11, we adjusted to our ”new normal.” Nations rise and fall; natural disasters buffet our landscape. Life can be hard.
In terms of your physical and mental health, you can get out — and you should get out. Spend as much time as possible outdoors. You can safely meet people for walks or visits outside. Minimize the health risk to you and others by mask wearing, social distancing and washing your hands well. Humans are social beings; spending time safely with other people is good for your health.
You can examine your internet use to see what is helping and what might be harming your mental health.
Also, pick up a book. There are many different ways to experience the richness of being in the world. Reading a good novel is one.
Dear Amy: My late husband was an admired Boy Scout leader. He was given many handmade gifts by his Scouts over the years.
He has been gone now for over two years and I am trying to go through his (many) things and decide what to keep and what to donate.
My adult children don’t want these mementos made by others. I’m not sure what to do with them.
Is it rude to offer them back to the person who made the gift?
Worried Widow
Dear Worried: Not only is it not rude but I think it is generous and thoughtful to offer these handmade things to the original creator.
Compose a short note, telling the recipient that your husband valued his Boy Scout experience and that he treasured the keepsake for decades — and now you hope this handmade object will bring back good memories, in a new home.