A Time

As the days edge closer to the end of isolation, another thought occurs.

Am I prepared to re-enter society? How will I react to sitting next to another man, woman or child in a dental office, beauty parlor or even in a crowded place of worship.

Have unknown fears found shelter in my psyche?

I remember after a long difficult pregnancy that prohibited my driving, I was concerned about sitting in the driver’s seat once again.

Of course, I did because I had no choice. My family relied on me for transportation needs, and ultimately I conquered my qualms.

However, this is a different scenario. Obviously, not nine months of bed rest, but close to three months sequestered in a lovely, but small apartment. Apart from mail and meals being delivered, I have had no physical contact with another human being.

I certainly look different. The rather severe blunt edge haircut I have adapted for the past two decades is now replaced with a shoulder length zebra coiffure. I may go unrecognized, if that really matters. And ironically, it is the least of my concerns.

What does matter, however, is my own emotional reaction to rejoining the human race again. Will I be able to welcome even a minute form of physical contact? In recent years I have needed physical assistance on more than one occasion and often welcomed a helpful hand. Has the ability to smile rather than cringe been destroyed?

There are so many questions about the upcoming and unanticipated changes in society. Many have not yet been under consideration or discussed.

Will I welcome an invitation to a friend’s home for coffee, dinner or merely a drink?

Will I wonder about the health of all I even randomly encounter?

Would I dare sit in a crowded train, plane or bus ever again?

Are my days of enjoying live performances at an end?

And will emerging from isolation be as simplistic as we had all hoped it to be?

I wish it were so, but honestly, I doubt it.