Reflecting on the Year of COVID

Today, I went to put on my boots and found my son’s Hot Wheels car snuck deep inside. Earlier in the week, in the few minutes between work calls, we were playing cars on his racing track and afterward, he put the car in my boot to remind me to play with him again soon. The bright shining light in an otherwise dreary year has been these precious moments. Spending time with my kids -- a few minutes between calls, the occasional lunch dates, early dinners together all made possible because we’re all working from home. 

Recently my mom showed me a picture of me when I was four years old and she told me fondly that while money was tight during that time, it was the happiest she’s ever been. She then reminded me, that my son is the same age as I was in the photo and how I should be so lucky and appreciative now. Lockdown has given all of us this gift, but lately, I’ve been wondering if it will be a flash in the pan or will it drive meaningful change and force us to rethink and reprioritize what’s important. With wide distribution of vaccines nearing and “normal” life around the corner, I wonder how my life and the lives of so many other people will change when we return.

To be honest, I’m not entirely sure. But one thing for certain, years from now, when my kids are grown adults, I’ll always think back fondly on this period and the time when my son wanted to play cars. What will you think about years from now?