Well, it’s that time of year. Or it was, at least, in the “before times.”
By that time of year, I mean the holiday season. And by the holiday season, I mean a time for travel and gatherings with family and friends, for feasts, and frivolity (and, sadly, maybe the occasional fight). What is usually called for and expected over Thanksgiving, Christmas, and into New Years are the kinds of activities that send public health officials into night sweats. Large gathering indoors full of food and boisterous conversation. There are holiday parties and dates for New Years, gatherings across generations and packed airports.
For those who have followed the protocols for protecting themselves and others from COVID, this winter season promises to be very different from the last. Vaccines are widely available, even extending now down to 5-year-olds. There are even boosters which add extra protection - although the fact that they are necessary and that there are breakthrough infections adds to the unease.
I feel a lot of us live with the trauma and fear of the past. We are nervous, and public health officials, while touting the effectiveness of the vaccines, caution we are not out of the woods. In fact, it is unclear where this pandemic will go, especially considering the surprises it has already provided.
So my questions for all of you are versions of “What are your holiday plans?”
Do you plan to travel?
Are you going to see friends and loved ones for the first time in years?
How nervous are you? How excited?
What risks are you willing to take, and what risks seem still too great?
What is one thing you are especially looking forward to? And what is something you might worry about?
As always, these conversations are best when you also engage with others in the Steady community. We can’t wait to read the comments.
No traveling planned...fortunately most family and friends are near. Most is the key word- differences with Covid-19 separations and protocols...family is not the same. Time apart, traditions put on hold time, work and school new protocols endured, have made for new pathways away for some and other pathways less then welcoming. Keeping faith peace is bountiful to all of us...regardless our plans. I am greatful and thankful we are a family that at the very least, of health and secure work. Godspeed to family and America
No such thing as "holiday gathering" for someone who works in retail. Most businesses have blackout dates where it's highly unlikely that you can get enough time off to travel. Even if I could travel, I'm boycotting any trips to FL, my homestate, cuz of the sorry mess it's in.