it's Nita.

COVID-19 Update: I realize in the last few weeks (as I have not traveled at all during this pandemic nor did I for any of the holidays-Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s) that this topic has become painfully salient. As someone who has and still struggles with depression, I have to be vigilant to monitor my temperament and triggers. The scarcity of regular human interaction is one such trigger.

Like some of you, perhaps you have reached your limit of social isolation. Yes, I have gone for walks, went to the grocery store, or out to eat…but on other days when there was no reason to leave the house (as I work from home alone), I would go out. I would get in my car and drive for no reason. Why? Because I needed to see people, I needed to have an interaction even if it was just tires to pavement and jostling through traffic.

Technology is great but there is not substitute for being among people. All the Zoom meetings, shows to binge, videos to watch and social media to scour through still doesn’t feel this void. I am abundantly thankful for the friends that check on me and for the few I am able to see in person.

As an introvert, it was hard enough to get to know people and build/maintain authentic relationships before. However, as we approach the 10th month of lockdown, I am leaving room to grieve the ways I cannot be with others. I am choosing to be thankful for the all the ways I still can. And I am looking forward to when we can come back together hand-in-hand.

Love always,

it’s Nita.