This past week it hit me one morning, a little depression. It's the first time I have had this feeling in four and a half months of this pandemic.
I feel so fortunate. Amy and I have followed the rules, have basically stayed home since the beginning of the shutdown. Yes, I have taken on several “honey do” projects, so I have made some trips to Lowe's for supplies. However, I have been a faithful mask wearer, a dedicated user of hand sanitizer, and a faithful hand washer. I've maintained social distance everywhere, but these opportunities to be out have given me a change of scenery.
Since we have continued to broadcast worship, live from the sanctuary, we have kept that routine in our schedule, and have been able to interact with our staff on Sunday mornings. Our Wednesday “Midweek Meetups” have been a lot of fun, and our door prizes have been a wonderful distraction. The best thing that happens to us each week is when we sign-off on Wednesday nights and then get in Amy’s convertible to deliver a few gifts. Just being able to stand face-to-face with you (social distancing, masks on, yada, yada, yada…) has been a wonderful breath of fresh air.
From the beginning, we have tried to maintain our routine. Though we are working from home every day, we have tried to be faithful to take Mondays as our usual day off. With cell phones, most everyone works 24/7 these days, but we have tried not to do church work on Mondays. We even took a week of vacation. We aren’t beach-goers. Our boys’ girls are, so the six of us spent a week holed-up in a little condo. The routine was consistent: breakfast, beach, lunch, nap, beach, supper, cards/movie/evening activity... lather, rinse, repeat.
Furthermore Amy and I get along. We actually still like each other after almost 39 years together, and even after 120+ days locked up in the same house. (“…for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish through pandemics and protests… I do!”)
We’ve made it pretty well, but last week I had one morning of strange melancholy. After all these days I’m not sure what brought it on, but it reminded me of two things.
First, I was reminded how fortunate I’ve been (see all the above). I’ve not been sheltered in place like some folks, and my heart goes out to those who are truly alone. I’m grateful for church and technology. Let’s continue to be community for one another. A phone call can go a long way.
Second, I was reminded that we’re hardly finished with this pandemic thing. As best I can tell, the medical experts are still gravely concerned about the spread of the virus. It sounds as though “normal” is still not on the horizon.
So let’s stay in touch. Hang in there. Join us for Sunday worship at 11:00a and Midweek Meetup, Wednesdays at 6:00p. Join a Connection Group or a Bible study. Stay posted for Mission Opportunities.
We’re still church, and I need you.
I hope the feeling is mutual!