Wow! Suddenly the country was shut down basically by our government. Between the government and the media, we were frightened for our family and friends.
Family life became closer nit due to lockdowns and remote work. We spent more time together and played more games and we watched a lot of TV to know what was going on in the world. Probably one of worst aspects was out of fear the schools were closed. Kids did not learn, and they lost time in all their activities. We were almost in a prison, locked up and even the groceries were either delivered to the door or we ordered online, and our cars were loaded, but no walking the isles.
Restaurants were shut down and drive throughs and outside deliveries were common. No sit-down eating was allowed. Think of the owners and the employees who both lost their incomes. Many businesses never reopened. Amazon became a huge thing as it was totally online and door to door delivery of everything. Government aid programs helped some businesses to stay afloat.
Social life was turned upside down. Friends and even churches could only meet via the internet and Zoom became a huge help during that time. Drive by birthdays were normal. Our oldest son, a fireman, was constantly exposed to the virus and yet he survived. He also shared that there were dramatic increases of medical issues and deaths. Mental health skyrocketed with anxiety, depression, and loneliness. As churches started to meet again we had every-other row marked off to help keep distance between folks. Choir was canceled. Sunday School or community groups went to online meetings.
So it has been over five years and what lasting effects remain?
- remote and hybrid work remains - lots of automation to replace workers
- millions of folks retired and have never returned to the work force, some due to age but some just found another way to live and get by
- Dramatic inflation and availability of goods and services drastically reduced and/or changed
- Cities saw a mass migration to rural areas and lost tax revenue due to the shift
- We finally could get medical help/docs over the phone or via internet chats
- lots of lingering Covid related health issues remain
- delayed weddings and funerals especially were changed
- some folks never returned to church gatherings
- online education is forever here
- Be careful in over-reacting and even under-reacting
- Life is short and knowing Jesus is much more important when you understand that the end is potentially nearer than you once believed.
- God and family are much more important than I once thought
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