Respecting Others’ Grief During COVID Times

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As a parent, I often find myself navigating the complexities of keeping my children safe while also respecting the feelings of my friends. Recently, while spending time outdoors with my friend Lisa, who has expressed her preference for masks, I chose to keep mine on. Even though I’m fully vaccinated and following CDC guidelines, I understand that her comfort is more important than my desire to go without. We’re not yet ready to embrace what others consider “normal,” especially when it involves maskless children running about.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that we’ve all endured a year marked by profound loss and grief. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken lives and left many of us grappling with personal tragedies. The emotional toll is heavy; I often find myself reflecting on the devastating statistics and personal losses that have impacted my life. For example, my husband and I lost our last living grandparents during this time. Attending a masked funeral surrounded by only immediate family was a stark reminder of how different mourning has become.

Many have faced estrangement from loved ones due to differing views on safety protocols. The pandemic has revealed uncomfortable truths about people we thought we knew, leading to painful decisions about who to keep in our lives. It’s a jarring realization when the actions of loved ones show a lack of concern for safety. Expecting someone who is still processing trauma to conform to a newfound normal is simply unrealistic.

Isolation has also taken its toll on our social skills. After a year of limited interactions, many of us find ourselves feeling awkward in social settings. When I finally meet friends for brunch again, I dread the possibility that my social skills have diminished. It’s a struggle to re-establish connections after so much time apart.

While some might feel comfortable moving forward, it’s important to recognize that not everyone shares that sentiment. We each have our own comfort levels based on personal experiences and fears. If you see us wearing masks or avoiding certain situations, please be understanding. It’s a reflection of our ongoing grief and caution.

As we navigate this transition, let’s extend grace to one another. If you’re comfortable without a mask, please respect those of us who still need that extra layer of safety. It’s not about you; it’s about a tapestry of emotions we are all dealing with. I truly respect your eagerness to return to normal, but I hope you can understand that for many of us, that normal is still a distant goal.

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In summary, please be patient and respectful as we all navigate our feelings of grief and fear during these tumultuous times. Everyone’s journey is unique, and accommodating each other’s comfort levels is essential.