As I sat down to write a year-end wrap up, it was hard to get the words out. I wanted to write about gratitude but really, what did I want to say about a year that brought us a global pandemic, exposed the divisiveness and disparity in our country, and revealed the fragility of our democracy? Not to mention devastating wildfires, hurricanes, and an earthquake in Salt Lake City. As I started to write the “silver linings” of this awful year, what came out sounded cloying to me. While genuine (I am truly grateful for Howard, my kids, my family and friends . . . and wine), my words rambled on the page and felt hollow. Frustrated, I did what I normally do: procrastinate. Scrolling the internet, I read, “How to Make Freezer Friendly Breakfast Sandwiches” and “A Century After Phony Flu Ads, Companies Hype Dubious Covid Cures.” Then I found, “One Sentence That Will Make You a More Effective Speaker.” Last article, I told myself. Enough procrastinating. I’m glad I continued to read. While it’s something I know, I needed to be reminded to distill what you want to say into one big idea. Well, after thinking about being grateful for one thing, one big idea hit me. As we close out 2020, I am grateful for Zoom.
First off, let me first be clear – I have a love hate relationship with Zoom. Back in March, I’d never been on Zoom and was one of “those” people who didn’t know how to unmute myself. Now, I have bouts of Zoom fatigue. While it’s not the same as being together, the reality is, we can’t be together. Yes, Zoom is imperfect and has its downsides, but at least we can see each other. Like many of you, I’ve Zoomed with family members and friends in different states, re-connecting with friends I haven’t “seen” in years. I’ve attended online birthdays, a baby shower, a few memorial services, and my 40th college reunion. During lockdown, Howard and I kept our sanity by having “dinner” with friends via Zoom. I’ve taken various online meditation and writing classes along with like-minded souls from all over the world. And, who doesn’t love wearing old ratty jeans, slippers and a nice top when you’re on Zoom?
Because of Zoom, our son, who has been living out-of-state for many years, moved home for a few months to work remotely. He livened up our empty nest while quickly clearing out our refrigerator. Bulking up on groceries was a pleasure; it was a rare opportunity to spend so much time with him. Our daughter, a first-year teacher (during a pandemic!), taught online when a Covid exposure forced her first grade class into quarantine. She only lives a few miles away, but we Zoomed on Thanksgiving and Hanukkah with her because she’s in the classroom.
Because of Zoom, I’m thankful to have been able to connect with so many of you through classes which have kept me engaged and sane while the world fell apart and the walls closed in around us.
So, as this awful year comes to an end, I’m grateful that because of technology, we can stay connected.
I wish you and yours a very healthy and happy New Year. So long 2020! Here’s to peace, hope and vaccines for all! In the meantime, keep wearing your masks and stay safe.
I’m always on the lookout for new pieces to post. If you have an essay or poem on aging you'd like to share with others on the blog, click here for submission info. Since I also teach “Writing Through Grief” and “Writing as a Tool to Cope with Anxiety,” if you have a piece related to these topics, I’d love to read it. Anything you want to share about your pandemic experience is also welcome!
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