What a long, strange trip 2020 has been–and it’s only half over!
Of course, I can’t really complain. I mean, I DESPERATELY miss going to powwows, but because so many elders attend, I am glad all powwows have been cancelled; we need to protect our most valuable resource of experience and wisdom.
As we all wait to see what happens next, I have been enjoying my solitude. I actually love wearing a mask in public, because I’m tired of being judged by my appearance. Now people can stop recommending I get some orthodontic work done. I also very much enjoy social distancing, because I have been the recipient of so much unwanted touching over the course of my long life. I can’t even tell you how many times I have been involuntarily hugged, kissed, bumped, jostled, pushed, grabbed, slapped, punched, handled, manhandled, fondled, groped, and assaulted. The fact that anyone who touches me now might catch a deadly virus pleases me to no end. I do not exist for you to feel–I am here for me to feel. And I feel good.
Moreover, the new status quo does not prevent me from being touched by those whose touch I welcome. Now, more than ever, we can recognize the safety and security of being with the people we love. Even friends and family members I do not live with are welcomed to touch me, because that is a risk I am willing to assume. I trust that they are cautious and appropriately cleansed, as they trust me, and if, by some sad chance, I am infected by their touch, I willingly accept that risk. These are the people I would die for without hesitation, and this virus has helped me to understand exactly who they are.
So, as with all things, the virus has effects which are both positive and negative. I hope all of you can find the good things about today and make the most of them.
After all, who knows what tomorrow will bring? 2020 is a Trickster, with many more surprises in store . . .
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