Christmas & reaction to Covid!

 This time of year is usually Happy, Exciting, Energizing, and Joyful.

     This year however seems to be limited to Happy.

Exciting and Joyful have been driven down by covid. Joyful is at best low key and for many out the window.

      Energizing is taking our energy to adapt to the restrictions placed on all of us. Masks, separation space, and limits on where we can go plus things we can do.

     There are disappointments and the loss of personal contact. Masks hide who we are, our smiles and frowns. 

     Separation just adds to the loss of the personal. To see a crowd is to see a smaller number of people and all are mere shadows of individuals given their masks.

     The masks do several things: keep us safe, hide our emotions, muffle voices, and take away the individuals personality.  The latter by not showing the reactions to the surroundings and the things going on.  Facial language is missing.

     In addition to the masks we are to be 6’ apart and have no body contact.  No handshakes or hugs. No pat on the back or encouraging nudge. Personal contact is an important part of our lives. 

     So this year the holidays will be missing the regular Joy of hugs, watching the  lighting up of faces, and personal touch.

     Toss in the loss of public celebrations with large crowds, the throng of shoppers in malls and stores, and closed businesses and restaurants.

     All this means that family and close friends are ever more important.

Merry Christmas and A Hppy New Year!