It has been almost 7 weeks since my last blog posting. Much has changed during this period of time, but one thing has not changed-at least for the better. The Coronavirus Pandemic (Covid19) is more invasive, more troublesome than ever.
Across the world, there have been about 18 million people diagnosed with 687,000 deaths. In the United States, as of August 2, 2020, there has been about 5 million diagnosed with 153,913 deaths.
These staggering numbers keep growing with no end in sight. New terms describe the effects of this very real “hell on earth” such as “lock down,” meaning being advised or ordered to stay inside one’s dwelling; face masks are becoming a more regular sight on the streets and other public gathering places, worn by those practicing “Social Distancing” from others. Businesses are either closed for the time being-or closed permanently as owners file for bankruptcy.
There is one other group being affected in a dramatic way: those who have lost loved ones, whether to the virus or some other cause. Those who grieve must grieve alone. If the one who dies is in a hospital or nursing home, those closest to them cannot visit them or care for them. It seems like a giant magnifying glass on an experience that is painful beyond words under the best of circumstances.
It appears that the virus will be with us for a long time until effective vaccines are found and made available. In my blog post on June 24th this year, I offered a few things we can do to find some relief. It’s worth repeating them here:
Write some notes and post them in your kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. Begin the notes, “I will not always feel like I do right now. This will pass.” Briefly jot down people and things for which you are thankful.
For many people acquiring a pet brings comfort and times of joy.
Remember, Very little is reasonable about grief under any circumstances. There is nothing reasonable or fair about losing someone we love. There is certainly nothing fair about a viral pandemic. Remember also that grief is the last act of love we have to give those who have died.
Write down a list of those who you can call on the phone who will listen to you. You may want to call using FaceTime if both of you are open to it.
Mostly, remind yourself often that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it is not an oncoming freight train.
Peace, joy (and a virtual hug),
Bob Deits
