If you had told me when I holed up here a month ago I’d still be working from home with no end in sight, I would have had difficulty believing it. I’ve still got a minimum of three weeks to go at the present stay at home directive’s end (I believe it will be extended).
Everyone I know is in a similar situation, but I do believe, besides my brother and a couple others, I’m the only one at home by myself. I can stay in my pajamas all day if I want to, and I don’t have to tend to anyone else’s needs when I’m not working.
One thing I’ve learned that has served me well in situations like this is to not compare my situation to anyone else’s. We’re all going through this together in our own ways. One way isn’t better or worse than the other. Every experience is unique to the owner.
I say that to preface this – someone told me I was lucky to sheltering in place – alone. Then that person proceeded to tell me how much more suffering they’ve endured because they are not alone.
I know everyone thinks living alone is enviable and glamorous in times like these. I don’t have to meal plan, teach, plan craft time, explain to kids why they can’t go outside or weigh the risks of walking a dog. I can sleep in if I want to, wear pajamas all day, not shower for days on end, and toilet paper lasts longer. It’s a paradise.
I will confess this one thing – it’s also scary to be stuck here by myself. If I get sick, who takes care of me? If I need to get to a hospital and I’m too sick to call a doctor? What happens then? I actually deal with thoughts like this when I’m not confined to quarters.
We all have our own experiences and view of reality. The only way I can stay sane is to live within my own reality and not compare myself to anyone else.
This is how Pandemic Social Distancing is for me right now. I will continue to do my video diary and share my observations with others. I’m hopeful the pollen count will go down so I can go outside for longer periods of time. I’m also still working full time (from home, in my pajamas), and I’m grateful for it. I don’t know what I’d do if I had to sit here all day without anything to do!
Here we are, America. Pandemic Social Distancing, Day 28.
Sassy Dreams Awake 