The Whole World Needs a Hug

We’re on day 11 of both kids being sick. Common colds and a double ear infection. Not COVID, thank goodness. But even at that, the pharmacy was out of one of the prescriptions they needed. One of the local Walgreens consistently has 5 cars lined up at the drive-through pharmacy. And the website was so bogged down we couldn’t place a curbside order.

I’m not writing this to complain. I’m shining a light on the fact that there is a lot of sickness going on right now. The physical sickness that is evident from the lines at the pharmacy and the difficulty finding cold medicine.

Not to mention the mental sickness that is less visible but just as prevalent. How could almost 2 years of operating in a global pandemic not take its toll on all of us? After weddings being canceled and rescheduled to include minimal guestlists. Babies delivered and celebrated over computer screens to keep them safe. Holiday plans canceled or shifted because of sickness. Loved ones quarantined or even lost. And another wave baring down on us. It can feel overwhelming.

I think we all need a big hug. To feel that connectedness to other humans again. To breathe a sigh of relief. To feel safe, secure, and loved, if just for a moment.

So, since it’s not quite safe to do this in person yet. (Especially since the kids are STILL sick.) Consider this my virtual hug to you. Close your eyes. Take a deep breath and release. In this moment, I got you.