Depending On

Four years ago shortly before the Presidential election, I lamented the division between families and friends due to diverse political beliefs.

I wondered aloud if relationships would be permanently affected once the votes had been counted.

I remembered that concern this morning when I realized the similarity in my fears today.

These, however, are not caused by opposing political views, but instead by observance or non-observance of Covid precautions.

We are once again divided as a nation into two categories; those who believe it is imperative to rigidly maintain CDDC precautions and those who frankly say, “Not me, I’m careful.”

I think everyone has either a dear friend, or family member, who sent a holiday greeting telling of a large family get-together. Many of us sitting alone observing either lockdown or virtual quarantine, questioned their choices.

Wasn’t our friend, or in some cases, relative, aware of the danger? Not only to themselves, but to others when dining out or driving to another state and maintaining rigid family traditions.

I must wonder when it is over (and it will be eventually,) will the old friendships and familiar cordial rapport be intact. Or will a memory of someone not really caring enough to relinquish personal choices to protect strangers become a division point?

Several friends and a few acquaintances were decidedly on the opposite side of the political arena in November, 2020. We were absolutely aware of the other’s viewpoints, and yet, reluctant to abandon our own.

When the American people made their choice on November 3rd, I may not have agreed, but I accepted their decision. No friendships were severed by our diverse opinions.

However, with a possibility of contagion from a deadly virus, I wonder if I can be so aloof with my displeasure. I would like to hope, not only I, but countless others who are equally concerned, will overcome our obvious indignation and friendships will remain intact.

It is difficult to be unresponsive, however, this holiday season when many Americans flew, dined, and partied ignoring the advice of countless health experts. I only hope respect and harmony endure after Covid becomes a mere bad memory.

That, of course, will depend on many things.