There Is

In the oft quoted words of Ecclesiastes:

“There is a time to every purpose under the heaven”

As thus the past ten weeks of isolation have again proven.

The changes in our country, not only in lifestyles, in relationships have altered life dramatically.

Initially, I seemed to watch from the sidelines not quite comprehending those affecting me. Perhaps they were more subtle initially or possibly, I was reluctant to accept alterations.

I had reached a level of contentment putting losses and unhappiness in a hidden corner of consciousness. I had a new level of serenity and degree of indulgence, no longer being quite as self sufficient but comfortably relinquishing responsibility for many mundane necessities.

This morning when I looked at my calendar and wondered about the possibilities of re-emergence into society within the next few weeks, I became aware that I had become a different person.

No, the change I view is not as radical as a successful facelift, or shocking new hair color, nor have I lost the desired twenty lbs. The change physically is perhaps a subtle relaxation. I have not worn this facade since early youth. I have rediscovered the truth that there is no need to hurry. I do not have to exist with anxiety to complete every task.

Another important truth I have rediscovered is that for every minus there is a plus. At the risk of sounding like a cliche, a rainbow inevitably follows a storm. Perhaps I had stopped looking to find the rainbows in my life. Perhaps I had forgotten many pleasures

I would not attempt to assess the negative aspects of our Covid 19 experiences, especially for those who were afflicted and lost loved ones.

I was one of the more fortune others, quarantined for safety, in “lockdown” as a protective measure, but still witness to lifestyles threatened.

As did I, and then I also learned a few things.

I have rediscovered classical music. I had tucked that away for much too long. The reemergence has quieted my soul.

I have faced reality and with a degree of common sense accepted the need for a new exercise bicycle. During the days of confinement, the constant need to maintain mobility became more obvious.

I can not longer deny my vehicle of choice desperately needs replacement. So with reluctance but acceptance, I have ordered a new fitness tool.

Once I believed I could not face society without the aid of a professional hair salon. Yet I have emerged, not quite as “Put together,” but still not requiring a hood.,

Initially, the loss of a traditional Saturday night dinner enjoyed with two friends seemed a major loss. Although the atmosphere is not as gracious as a lovely dining room table, we have discovered three box lunches in a quiet sitting area allows the same rapport. Our friendship has survived and perhaps flourished despite the mandated social distancing, plastic gloves and masks.

The human spirit endures.

Earlier this year before virus was a word not used often in my vocabulary, I was unenthused about beginning another book. I wondered if perhaps age was a factor for reluctance. Perhaps burn out was a source for the lack of imagination. I had basically decided, “No more.”

Suddenly, an inquiry from someone whose name I knew, but had never met, asked me a question. I was asked to help with a memory. Immediately, a door that had been sealed I thought forever, reopened. The amazing joy of attempting to tell another story reemerged.

And once more, the beautiful words, of Ecclesiastes are remembered.

“There is a time to dance.”