Yet, Still Not The Best of Times

My mom stopped by in the saddest visit every -- she stood on one side of the door to give me some pictures she found while cleaning. We stood on the other side of the closed storm door. I guess it is a good thing we have not yet put the screen door in.

It has been over 40 days since the shut downs began. Protesters (seemingly back by Trump) are urging the states to reopen completely. Others are insisting we stay locked in place until, well I don't know what they mean by until. Until the virus is eradicated? Until there is a proven vaccine? Until the economy completely collapses? Until after the November election and January inauguration when hopefully we have a change in leadership? Until other countries open up? Until someone declares this has to run its course? 

Such a tumultuous time.

Jobs that seemed to be always rock solid, the kind that could never be outsourced, are suddenly furloughed. This just adds to the feelings of unease.

In no particular order:

• Hair dressers
• Bartenders
• Servers
• Hospitality industry (pilots, hotel staff, etc.)
• Cafeteria workers

The list goes on.

Working for rock solid companies is also no long rock solid. Multiple friends who have been with Disney for over a decade are suddenly furloughed. 

Less rock solid positions, including running your own business, are collapsing. Though some people are thriving through this.

It has not yet been two months but many of us can remember what life was like before, or what it will be like afterwards.

We are fortunate here. Both Don and I are employed at full salaries. We are saving money by not eating out, driving, and enjoying entertainment. Our car insurance company will give us back 15% because a tank of gas now lasts us over a month. No reason to buy new clothes since stores are mostly closed and we are not seeing anyone.

Given the lack of leadership on the national level, governors of seven states, including New Jersey, have joined together to form a coalition. Some have already canceled schools for the year. Others, including New Jersey, are holding off on that decision.

In Lawrenceville (population 33,000+) we have less than 200 cases of Coronavirus. One side of me says that's because we are doing such a great job, but since we are doing such a good job, shouldn't we at least have a plan to reopen some places again?

Ready for this to be over!