Thursday, or Thereabouts - March 11, 2021

 March 11, 2020:

the World Health Organization officially declares C0VID-19 to be a pandemic.

I sat down at my computer this morning with every intention of using this space today to write about the past year in a kind of personal reflection of then and now. A sentence or three emerged before my fingers slowed on the keyboard. Thoughts trailed off and words disappeared.
In my country, this day has been declared a National Day of Observance  or COVID-19. In his official statement, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remarked in part:

 “Today, on the National Day of Observance for COVID-19, we honour every individual who lost their life to this disease, and we stand with the people they loved as they continue to cope with this unimaginable loss. Together, we also recognize all who have been impacted by the pandemic, and we reaffirm our commitment to work as Team Canada to beat this virus."

What have I had to do in the past year? Stay home. That's it. And while some days loneliness, isolation, and anxiety stole my joy, some days tears blinded me, and some days anger stole my heart, those losses are but nothing compared to others who gave so much and lost so much more to this wretched pandemic. As the Prime Minister noted, 

"...more than 22,000 Canadian families have lost a loved one, many people have lost their jobs and businesses, health care and front line workers have faced great risk and challenge, and all Canadians have made sacrifices to keep others safe and healthy." 

My heart goes out to all those who grieve,

all those whose livelihoods were lost,

all healthcare staff who have worked so many extra hours in a shift from hell that has not ended yet,

all front line workers who risk personal health in service to my health and safety,

and all the unseen untold hands, hearts, and analytical brains that work the backrooms.

On this day I offer each and every one of you a profound bow of deep respect and gratitude.

Thank you for your service.

©2021 April Hoeller