Trying to compose a blog post through the mental haze of COVID is a bit of a challenge but I’ll give it a go.
We returned last week from attending our son’s wedding out of state. It was a beautiful outdoor ceremony, and it was wonderful to be able to spend time with family and friends.
Unfortunately, many of the guests have since tested positive. So far, thankfully, there have been no complications. Yes, it’s likely we were exposed at the wedding with all of the hugs and handshakes, but I’m also convinced that it was too early to lift the mask mandate for air travel. Our flights (two, each way) were packed. My husband and I wore our masks out of an abundance of caution, and we were clearly in the minority of passengers doing so. At the beginning of each flight, the captain announced the federal mask mandate had been lifted and asked each passenger to respect the choice of their fellow passengers regarding masking. Sounded simple enough until our first flight out of SFO became airborne and the fellow across the aisle (unmasked) launched into a coughing fit. And he wasn’t alone. We saw this repeatedly on the other flights as well.
It’s no wonder we’re hearing about flight cancellations due to “staffing” issues. Looks like hazardous working conditions to me. It’ll be a while before we consider flying again.
So to get home sick and have Roe v. Wade overturned was like getting kicked in the gut when you’re down.
About a month ago, I’d committed to participating in a Zoom reunion of writers and poets who’d contributed to an anthology titled Sisters Born, Sisters Found: A Diversity of Voices on Sisterhood, edited by Laura McHale Holland. Pulling myself together Saturday morning, I signed on, grateful to be able to join from the comfort of my home. It was good to be in the company of so many women who had shared their stories. As we took turns reintroducing ourselves and checking in, it was clear that the devastating impact of the Supreme Court decision the day before was deeply felt by all of us. If we’d been able to meet safely in person, I’m sure we would have all embraced in a huge group hug.
Brenda Bellinger 