The Silver Lining

“Hi Abby. Love Mommy.” I found this heartfelt message written in chalk at the end of a driveway during my afternoon walk today. I found similar “posts” in front of other homes. “Hi Sean. Miss you. Allison.” And in the middle of the street in rainbow colors: “Stay Strong!” In this surreal moment of social distancing, this is one novel way people are showing their love and spirit.

Prior to shelter in place, I hardly ever saw another soul in my neighborhood. Hardly anyone going for a walk, or riding bikes or shooting hoops at the end of a driveway. And when I would occasionally encounter another stroller, usually their eyes would divert. There would rarely be a friendly “hello” or nod. But today? Everyone was out and about! Mostly maintaining social distance, but out and about. Walking, riding, shooting hoops, or just sitting on a front stoop. And nearly everyone gave me a friendly “hello.” It’s like we’ve gone back to the 60s or 70s. And what was particularly nice I thought was seeing a teenage brother and sister (I assume) shooting hoops together. Who would have thought? With all this time to kill, I imagine siblings are rediscovering each other.

And so, in spite of the horror that is unfolding and will continue to unfold, at least there is this: People are slowing down. They are stepping away from their electronic devices and getting out and about in the neighborhood. They are acting kinder, gentler. They are even saying hello. That is the silver lining.

NOTE: If / as you get outside for air, exercise or hoops, please practice social distancing behaviors at all times. Be Safe!

From my blog post Just Sayin.