Spot of T: Take baby steps as we emerge from coronavirus lockdown

It certainly has been a long few months.

For many, nearly the entire spring was spent indoors, away from those we love and many of the places we enjoy visiting.

I know it was a long spring, seemingly endless and difficult. But here we are: knocking on summertime’s door just as our own doors are allowed to reopen.

While the isolation was rough, it was not insurmountable. You persevered and you made it! Give yourself a huge pat on the back for getting through it.

Hopefully, something positive came out of the downtime you had, and you can look back and see a silver lining begin to emerge from those dark days.

So, now what? As things begin to reopen, I highly recommend you go forward with baby steps.

Judging by the reports released recently, we should not let our guard down while out and about in the world. Masks, hand sanitizers, gloves, frequent handwashing and social distancing are all here for the long haul.

But, with the use of those precautions, you should be able to go out and enjoy yourself a bit.

I truly believe we should support local businesses as they struggle to get back on their feet. I believe we should spend time with friends and family, responsibly, of course.

Did you ever watch as a baby takes its first steps? The steps are slow and tentative, at first, teetering and unsteady. Then, with time, the steps become steadier and faster paced.

Think of that baby as you begin to emerge from the COVID-19 cocoon. As you leave the safety of your home, be aware of the recommended guidelines and act accordingly. Slow and steady.

I believe there are advantages to taking life a bit slower as you head out. Be aware of your surroundings and see the beauty that has emerged everywhere during our mandated hibernation.

The trees have all blossomed, flowers are abundant, and wildlife is teeming. The fluffy white clouds contrast with the bright blue summer sky, dotted by the occasional bird in flight. It’s truly beautiful.

Rather than sitting inside in a crowded restaurant, you can now sit outside, al fresco, and dine from your first-row seat to the world around you.

As we venture out, remind yourself that everyone is in the same situation. Newly released into the world, they are happy to be free to roam.

Though it’s hard to notice a smile behind the masks, a pleasant “Hello, how are you?,” a wave of your hand or a nod of your head in a friendly greeting can all add to the joy of being free.

So welcome back into the world! Take it slow as you venture back out. Take a deep breath, enjoy that summer air, the sights and sounds of the world around.

Look at it all with fresh eyes, eyes that have been cooped up for so long, and are now free to see the beauty around you.

Baby steps, my friend. Baby steps.

Terry Alburger is the life engagement coordinator at Brittany Pointe Estates in Lansdale, Montgomery County.

PUBLICDOMAINPICTURES.NET As reopening from the coronavirus lockdown begins, go forward with baby steps.