The World Of

This is my seventh day of quarantine, and I have learned it is quite different from lockdown.

I have been in lockdown due to Covid since February, 2020, and while it is not an experience to be endorsed, it doesn’t fall into the category of quarantine.

Now having entered into this world of “Q”, I realize the depth of isolation.

The random cups of coffee enjoyed from an acceptable social distance are now verbatim.

The occasional trip to pick up mail in the lobby has ended.

An unexpected knock on the door from a friend bearing home made muffins is no longer permissible.

Virtually, there is no human contact with the exception of a masked and gowned wellness staff member arriving to verify my professed state of well being.

But most of all, “Q” is a warning call to face my own mortality.

Oh, I have peeked in on that more than once as the numbers moved up on my acknowledgment of age, but possibly not with total honesty.

Now I have no choice, and I must admit the prospect has repercussions.

I desperately wish I had reconciled with one and all who had either disapproved or frankly, disliked me. I could have tried harder to please.

Certainly I had time when I count the years I have enjoyed on this amazing earth; more mornings, afternoons and twilights than I dare to remember. Nor could I ever calculate how many extraordinary pilgrims I encountered during those blissful and adventurous days.

I believe I could have achieved more if I had tried. However in all honesty, I never wanted more than the amazing and surprising gifts that seemed to flow unexpectedly into my life. Most, if not all, were a total and joyful experience and utterly unanticipated especially those bearing love.

Consequently, if Covid marks the last chapter for me, I must be realistic and admit, I never dared dream life would be so wonderful.

If blessedly on the tenth day, I emerge, intact and of course, hopefully test negative, I pray I remember to try harder, laugh more often, and remember the words of St. Francis daily, not only on Sunday.

A relatively brief sojourn into the world of “Q” has reminded me about that.