The spike in COVID-19 was predicted. Predictions are: it’ll get worse.

People (who, mostly, feel comfortable) prefer the ‘familiar’. It’s familiar to maintain the status quo. The status quo (before this pandemic) did not include stay-at-home orders, social distancing, and wearing a protective mask. Even if you are among a group of people who were not ‘mostly comfortable’ before this pandemic, it’s even more uncomfortable now, yes? This pandemic protocol is not welcome by anyone.

Most people react to restrictive and unpredictable change, such as what we’re currently dealing with, with this pandemic. Most people can deal with challenge for a short period of time, especially when there’s an end date. How many have said: I can do this for 2-weeks! I’ve even heard: I can do this for 2-years! The latter conviction usually accompanies a personal conviction - with a positive outcome, some kind of relief, or no seemingly better choice. It may be that you’re gong on a tour-of-duty. It may be that you’re caring for a loved one with a terminal illness.

What happens, though, when there’s confusion about the facts? The COVID-19 virus seems straight forward to me. That’s me. For many others, it’s confusing.

Even for me who’s not confused, it’s nearly impossible to hold back a hug when someone needs it - hell, I need them. I still want to take off my mask whenever I can - steamy glasses are annoying. I’m still enticed by an invitation to dance in a group or travel with friends - though I’m reluctantly not following through on these offers now. Even though I believe whole-heartedly that there is a deadly virus spreading around the world and in my neighborhood - I am still unable to fully wrap my head around following all the important safety measures to a tee, without an end point. (I’m doing it - just sayin’, it’s challenging).

It does not surprise me, then, that there’ currently a spike in how many people are contracting the COVID-19 virus. It does not surprise me that there’s a spike in how many people are dying from it. The spike does renew my ability to follow strict safety protocols. I do not want to be part of the problem.

I used to say to my kids: safety first! then, fun! Now, more than ever, we must remind ourselves of the wisdom in this saying. When I’m engaged in ‘risky behavior’, I’m not only taking a chance of being infected by the virus (and infecting those close to me); I’m risking being part of the continued, surging, world-problem.

Mama says: Be safe. Have fun. In that order!

Much love and compassion to you…