Hoping and believing that we learned from COVID-19 experience
If April showers bring May flowers, what do May showers bring? Weeds, grass to mow, a healthy start on a garden and the beauty of spring in Coshocton County. April seemed a bit lacking in rain, although I did not verify the numbers – if memory serves, the past few Mays have seemed to be wetter and a bit chillier than others that I remember. But, as we all know, memory tends to fade with time – and the years.
April also brought a talented group of players to the Browns via the NFL draft, which was coincidentally, held in the city by the lake. Current ownership seems to be taking things seriously with the intention of putting together a team that can make it all the way to the big game. Of course, the Browns came close last season. One penalty call away but who remembers things like that?
This past Saturday – now but a distant memory for most of us – was an absolutely beautiful day. Sunday warmed up quite a bit and you could almost hear the grass growing. And yes, for those that are wondering, on a really hot summer day you can hear the corn growing. Try it sometime.
Saw a new one this weekend – well, not really. Not only was a person texting while driving, but they were eating, texting and driving. Heck, why not read a book too?
In the past two weeks, new COVID-19 cases in the U.S. have dropped by almost half. This is certainly positive news that comes on the heels of continuing growth in vaccinations. The most tragic news is coming from India, where a lack of ventilators and oxygen are increasing the death rate. Other nations are coming to the aid of India.
We’re only a few weeks away from high school graduation, which thankfully, will be allowed in a different atmosphere than last year. It is unfortunate that the class of 2020 graduated without the fanfare of typical years – yet – everyone made the best of it. They will always remember how the pandemic affected their lives – as all of us will remember. For those that have lost friends or family members to the virus, it will always be a source of sadness. What do we do with that?
I believe that we need to cherish more deeply, take more time to reflect and somehow, be less busy. Figuring that one out could be the real challenge as things begin to open up again. Will we quickly return to our “pre-pandemic lives” – lives that were filled with technological gadgets, electronics and entertainment – or will we seek to find a happy medium if you will pardon the cliché?
Here’s hoping – and believing – that we can take this experience and, as millions around the world have already done – turn it into something positive. The key is knowing and understanding what is really important in life – our relationships with family and friends.
Category: Mark's Musings, Opinion
