Here it comes. Or rather, here it ‘tis! Yes, we’ve finally navigated our way out of 2020 and moved on to a new year. Seemingly few have wished for a longer 2020. One overheard comment might capture the sentiment of others – “To say 2020 has been the year from HELL does injustice to HELL!” Last year held its share of bittersweet moments.
On the bitter side, friends passed away. Favorite restaurants closed. Travels plans were upended – AKA cancelled or postponed.
Businesses closed. Memorial services were held with few attendees. Going for the sweet side, we could indeed create a list. Birthdays were celebrated albeit in a slightly different manner on driveways and with drive bys. Weddings occurred although often delayed with reduced family and friends in attendance. Anniversaries, graduations and commencements happened creatively.
We learned to recognize masked friends by their eyes not their smiles or faces. Yes, eyes can and do convey many emotions from pleasure to distress, dismay and even confusion. We’ve learned what we already knew – we’re social beings and enjoy others’ fellowship.
We’ve learned what the ceilings look like in different people’s homes, possibly offices too, as camera angles vary. We know it’s smart to have total attire should the need arise to stand up or move around during a virtual meeting. That coat, tie and shirt or jacket and blouse ensemble convey one professional image. The bottom half – sweat pants or pajama bottoms – offers
another.
We’ve learned, and keep learning, that a mute/unmute “button” is located somewhere on the computer screen. No universal sign language that I know cues the silent talker that “We can’t hear you!” We’ve learned our furry friends like to join Zoom meetings. Kitties especially seem to enjoy a walk across the keyboard with tails flicking Hello. Here’s to 2021 with more sweetness. You can hold the bitter, please!
Martha (Marty) Coffin Evans, Ed.D. is a freelance writer with MACE Associates, LLC. She can be reached at itsmemartee@aol.com.