We need some kindness
We are all drowning. All of us. We were told that the pandemic would be over by now, and it isn’t. We were told that once we were vaccinated, we would be impenetrable. We aren’t. Mask on, mask off, mask on again. Working longer hours at home, no exercise, eating junk out of the pantry. Can’t see your best friend because her family doesn’t believe in the COVID vaccine. It’s a mess.
Doctors are drowning too. We are inundated by the anxiety of our patients, dealing with their illnesses, and shortage of staff. We are also dealing with our own anxieties about our loved ones near and far.
It’s been a year and a half since I wrote for my blog. I can’t quite believe it. I’m a prolific writer and I haven’t had the desire to write a single thing. I’m more worried about keeping the kids in school, about my aging mother who has her set of health issues, and in general making sure that we as a family stay as safe as possible.
Our summer had been wonderful, excursions to California, camp, hanging out on summer nights on our porch. Now, we are here again. Back to the rise in the curve. Back to the uncertainty of COVID.
I have not been perfect during this time. I have lost my temper, yelled at someone for stealing my parking spot and been rude and abrupt. By my own standards, I do not think that I have had the best bed side manner with my patients. One of the most important things that we must do is maintain our kindness and empathy for each other. It’s damn difficult, especially now. We cannot take our frustrations out on each other. It makes everything worse.
Today, we had a semi holiday celebration in the office. Nothing like before. We ordered lunch and ate separately. I made sure to let my staff know that although I have been buried in seeing patients, that I wouldn’t be able to do it without them. They too are dealing with the frustrations, anger and sadness of all the patients, and it isn’t easy.
Next time, when we feel the anger or sadness that this pandemic has brought us, take a deep breath. Hold it for five seconds and then let it out. Do it again. It’s the only thing we can control at this time. Oh, and being kind to each other.
May the holiday season bring you much happiness, peace, love and laughter. Stay bright.
