Writing Challenge Day 28: When This Is Over

When this is over, will we shake hands again?
Will we make plans again?
Or will it all be banned again?

When this is over, will we commute again?
Will offices be absolute again?
Or will my car be moot again?

When this is over, will we still carry hand sanitizer?
Will we be any wiser?
Or will we forget it all like a blur?

I wouldn’t dare speak for the rest of the world, But for myself, these things are sure:

When this is over, I’ll take fewer things for granted
I’ll make the most of the seeds I’ve planted
I’ll work harder for the things I’ve always wanted

When this is over, I’ll prioritize my happiness
I’ll try so hard to worry less
I’ll always give my very best

When this is over—and it will be—
I’ll be the best possible version of me.

===================

Poetry aside: when this is over, I’m getting a haircut (it’s been 296 days, but who’s counting?) and rebooking the European vacation I had planned for Spring 2020. What about you?

Parents
  • Honestly, I think that life will go mostly back to what we all considered normal once the vaccines are widely distributed. From the viewpoint of many on this list, some things will appear different, but I suspect it will be more from temporarily rapid evolution that will return to its former, slower pace. I think a lot of the people who have started working from home will continue to do so. The more employees work remotely, the less office space those companies will have to buy or lease. It saves them money so long as productivity remains high. On the other hand, if you're heavily invested in commercial real estate, that trend won't do you any favors.

    On a more macro level, I do think many companies will try to move supply chains back to the US, even if the American product is a bit more expensive. At minimum, I think companies will relocate a good chunk of their Chinese activities elsewhere, even if just to diversify. The troubles getting PPE alone, especially earlier in the pandemic placed the value of having domestic production capacity in the spotlight.

    Personally, I look forward to the return to a more normal office culture. I want to get back to being able to pay with a minyan at the synagogue, resume in-person social activities, see family, and travel again. I want to get back to my 'second home' on the 300-level in Nationals Park. It will be great to not feel like I need to mask up, then spend several minutes wiping down a shopping cart (handles, basket -- the whole shebang) just to get groceries.

    Yet, I will not be able to ignore actions taken and words written or spoken by some people I know. It has changed my view of them, some for better and others ... not. At least I have a better idea of just who some people are and can tell just what sort of relationship I may or may not want with them.

Comment
  • Honestly, I think that life will go mostly back to what we all considered normal once the vaccines are widely distributed. From the viewpoint of many on this list, some things will appear different, but I suspect it will be more from temporarily rapid evolution that will return to its former, slower pace. I think a lot of the people who have started working from home will continue to do so. The more employees work remotely, the less office space those companies will have to buy or lease. It saves them money so long as productivity remains high. On the other hand, if you're heavily invested in commercial real estate, that trend won't do you any favors.

    On a more macro level, I do think many companies will try to move supply chains back to the US, even if the American product is a bit more expensive. At minimum, I think companies will relocate a good chunk of their Chinese activities elsewhere, even if just to diversify. The troubles getting PPE alone, especially earlier in the pandemic placed the value of having domestic production capacity in the spotlight.

    Personally, I look forward to the return to a more normal office culture. I want to get back to being able to pay with a minyan at the synagogue, resume in-person social activities, see family, and travel again. I want to get back to my 'second home' on the 300-level in Nationals Park. It will be great to not feel like I need to mask up, then spend several minutes wiping down a shopping cart (handles, basket -- the whole shebang) just to get groceries.

    Yet, I will not be able to ignore actions taken and words written or spoken by some people I know. It has changed my view of them, some for better and others ... not. At least I have a better idea of just who some people are and can tell just what sort of relationship I may or may not want with them.

Children
No Data
Thwack - Symbolize TM, R, and C