BRONX, NY- Hello readers! How have you all been? I sincerely hope you have been staying safe during this pandemic. I know that is easier said than done when essential responsibilities like food shopping and medical appointments are needed but continue to do your best. Do not be one of those jerks that goes outside because you don’t take the threat seriously. If you are that jerk, do not question later how you and your loved ones caught the virus.
A huge thank you to all the doctors, nurses, EMTs, and other essential workers who are risking their lives to help us fight this virus. Thank you to those who work in pharmacies, bodegas, supermarkets, and banks for helping us during these difficult times. I know people who have already lost loved ones to COVID-19 and my hearts are with them. I cannot imagine the pain they are going through….
I started self-isolating about a month ago. Before the quarantine started, Gil was hearing about the virus at his job in the hospital: “do not go outside. You have asthma, which makes you high-risk!” The virus directly attacks the lungs, so I did not blame him for being worried about me. Since I suck at breathing, I stocked up on some essentials and locked myself inside. I warned my family and friends of what was coming.
If I really must go out, I wear a mask. Yes, I miss going outside and spending time with my loved ones. I miss my long walks with Shakira without worrying about catching the virus. This time of year, I usually go to the parks and enjoy nature blooming while the pollen makes me sneeze. For now, I must see spring from my window. I stay home not only to keep myself safe, but to make it easier on those who work in hospitals because they cannot be with their families.
My anxiety has been on overdrive. I am always terrified for my husband. I worry about the people I care about, and deal with my own fears. There have been nights where I have not slept due to nightmares or insomnia. In all that darkness, I have found tiny lights. Video calling my friends has been helpful in keeping me sane and vice-versa. We keep each other strong and talk our emotions out. I also been taking a few online courses to develop new skills and keep myself occupied. Other activities I do to keep my sanity is:
- Practice DJing
- Work on writing projects
- Exercise (home workouts have been my thing since January)
- Read (TBR list is never-ending)
- Write in my journal
- Blast music for music therapy
- Learn a new recipe
- Improve my Italian and American Sign Language
- Draw or paint
- Catch up with shows on Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+
- Play video games
- Stay connected with those I care about
Despite the negatives with this virus, I have noticed the positives. Music has united those who are in quarantine. I have watched videos of people singing and performing from their balconies in Italy and Spain. DJ D-Nice, Questlove, and other DJ’s have been streaming sets live on social media. Musicians are broadcasting live performances from their homes. Another bright side, the environment is slowly recovering due to lack of foot traffic and air pollution (how about we seriously tackle climate change once this pandemic is over, shall we?) Let’s continue to do our part to prevent this virus from spreading further. Wash your hands, do not touch your face, disinfect surfaces, and most importantly STAY HOME if you can.
I wish for you all to stay safe and healthy.
Love,
Rosa Elena
Banner Image: Rosa Elena Burgos
Last Updated: January 14, 2022