After retirement it was just the last real weekend of the summer and I seldom planned for anything special. Now in 2020 this school year is unlike any other school year. My daughter is a teacher in North Carolina in a year round school. They are beginning their fourth week of school this week. If that seems early, it isn't, they usually begin the day after the 4th of July. But it was delayed thanks to COVID-19. Many schools are already back in session by Tuesday, everyone will be back. But being back in school will not be what it used to be.
Before school begins most of us have already learned a new vocabulary. Every time we go out we must have our PPE, personal protective equipment including a mask, hand sanitizer, sometimes even gloves. We know that virtual lessons, meetings, worship services, and even doctors appointments, will probably involve technology, whether it is by phone, FaceTime, Duo, Google Meet, Zoom or any platform. When it comes to school we are learning the difference between synchronous learning (with the teacher in front of you online) and asynchronous learning (when the teacher in not online with you. When someone says social distancing we know that they are not being stand-offish or aloof, but they are remaining at least six feet apart. And we understand the tape and the decals on the floor of many public buildings. Most of us just follow the protocols for the health and safety of all, but there are always a few fools.
COVID-19 has changed everything. And to be honest, much of it I'm happy for. I appreciate everything a little more and God has blessed me more than I deserve. My family and I are healthy, happy, have everything that we need, and much that we want. Racism has finally become an open and often honest conversation and I am hopeful that we may see some real change in my lifetime.
Life is good. God is good. And all of us are learning some new lessons. There is so much to be thankful for.