. March is a month of transition. As the month approaches, we look back at the winter that is winding down and become excited about spring or what some see as a new beginning. We will also be springing forward and setting our clocks an hour ahead on March 14th as daylight savings time starts.This March marks the one- year anniversary of Covid 19’s introduction into the United States. As I look back, I think of the many lessons learned. We have learned how important our relationships with our family and friends are. Before Covid 19, there has not been a time in most of our lives when we were afraid to spend time together. The importance of social connections has been brought to the forefront by the pandemic. It is so important that while we look forward to a return to normalcy, that we transition wisely and continue to reach out in safe and creative ways to ensure that social distancing is not resulting in loneliness and social isolation or in behaviors that put ourselves and others at risk. We have learned the importance of being compassionate and caring as Covid 19th has touched, changed and in some cases taken the lives of our friends and family members. We have learned that age and racial disparities play a large role in determining who is more likely to become very ill or die from Covid 19. Most of all, I hope that we have learned the importance of self care. The pandemic has shaped the way in which we live our lives. So much of our daily stress can be attributed to the loss of control that we are now experiencing. Many of us are also feeling Pandemic Fatigue – like we’ve had enough and want to return to normal! Know when to step back and replenish yourselves. Recognize when it’s too soon to take certain risks. The numbers are going down and vaccine is becoming more widely available. We are certainly in a more hopeful place than we were last year. However, the race is not yet won. Let’s be smart, cautious and caring – especially when it comes to ourselves.
– Beverly Weathington, LMSW, Community Engagement Coordinator, MPSI
