Putting things on hold isn’t easy. It feels like putting a part of your life: family, friends, and dreams on hold. The pandemic dictates when and how we socialize regardless of where we come together. Because COVID-19 is deadly, sometimes it’s a good idea to pause and put things on hold.

It’s horrible! But the virus preys on our love and need for one another.

The pandemic preys on people who can’t wait until conditions are more favorable to resume certain activities. It is pronged to attack when our loneliness and need for companionship result in family and friend gatherings. These gatherings, along with church services, birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations uplift our spirits. Such contact and interactions are inevitable because humans are naturally social beings.

So, plans and commitments to do what used to be second nature or expected are delayed or changed in the name of safety. To keep others safe, personal safety is a priority.

This means wearing a mask and social distancing.

I know; it’s hard. Everyone is feeling the stress and strain of keeping the virus at bay.

Due to the fury of coronavirus, my family didn’t take a vacation in 2020. The decision to stay at home was a no-brainer considering the risks! We weren’t vaccinated. Safety and health trumped risk and sickness.

So, our staycation consisted of Smith’s chateau in Hueytown, which lacked room service and recreational amenities: pool, beachfront, and a panoramic ocean view.

Being vaccinated along with millions of others in 2021, we ventured out with the family to enjoy pre-pandemic activities and gatherings. Thank goodness we were able to get a vacation in during June of this year while the coronavirus infection numbers were somewhat down.

But now, the virus is on another warpath with a vengeance called the Delta variant.

Will we have to wait for another turnaround—again? Should some things be put on hold until our communities and states are free from being under siege by coronavirus?

We still talk about the good ole days or pre-pandemic days as if we’re fearful they won’t return. I’m sure many would agree that the old days were a rose garden compared to these last 18 months.

I can’t remember the last time I shopped at the Galleria Mall for an outfit for Sunday worship, a doll-up outfit for a concert at the Alys Stephen Center, a meet and chat with the girls and other enjoyable outings.

Waiting for a less risky time to celebrate those things we took for granted in the past is disheartening.

But there’s still hope if we work together and follow the CDC guidelines to battle the virus. Winning and beating the virus will take all of us. All for one; one for all; that’s what’s needed.

Now even the vaccinated should wear a mask.

I plan to wear my mask and do whatever it takes because I don’t want to get sick or make others sick. If everyone follows the guidelines and trusts God to provide what’s needed to eradicate the virus, we will win.

And vaccinations and masks will help us have a safe and successful school year for our loved ones.

With everyone doing their part, the good ole days are just around the bend.

Be safe.