Togetherness post COVID-19

I understand ninety percent of Americans have not received the vaccine due to multiple pitfalls in distribution and administration; in no way do I believe America has managed the COVID pandemic appropriately. You can peruse my previous blogs for dismay and frustration all of 2020, from lack of personal protective equipment, large gatherings of COVID deniers, mask burning, to state governors refusing mask mandates.

However, if there is a ray of light, I will run and bask in its warmth. The latest vaccine recommendations from the CDC are that ray of sunshine. Once you are two weeks past your second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccination or two weeks past your single vaccine injection of Johnson and Johnson ––you can spend time together indoors and unmasked with other fully vaccinated people. You get to feel normal again while also being safe; dine together indoors, without the fear your breath will be a lethal weapon to the now fully vaccinated grandparents.

My husband and I, both fully vaccinated, spent time with another fully vaccinated couple for the first time in a year. We drank wine and laughed and ate. It was communal, it was carefree and it was a gift. 

I hope everyone will soon have access to the vaccine, though worldwide shortages are frightening and appalling as well. The United States is administering over 2 million vaccine doses per day, on average, and President Biden promised the government would have enough supply to vaccinate any adult who wants a vaccine by the end of May. That is nine weeks away, people—nine more weeks. The speed for vaccine development and administration is nothing short of miraculous. 

COVID-19 has killed over two and a half million people worldwide and caused debilitating symptoms in the lives of countless others, including my eighteen-year-old nephew. We will never forget that darkness and tragedy. But today, I will bask in the light of vaccination and hope you feel the ray of light as well very soon. 

Until then, mask up, socially distance, and begin to make plans for summer. We are nearing the finish line.