As I write these words, most of our country is under some sort of quarantine. It sucks.
No one likes it.
People are afraid. People are scared (not the same thing as afraid). People are angry and there is a lot of effort at trying to control others.
Perhaps, the biggest reason we're afraid is because, at times like this, we are reminded of just how little control we have over all of the things that matter to us the most.
Something, I've been thinking about a lot in all of this is "what about all of the normal cruddy things that people have to face without being locked down?"
Things like cancer. Things like emergency surgery because you tore a tendon. Things like broken bones because you fell. Things like working on your car. I have had clients with all of these struggles. My daughter had to have oral surgery that was impacted by this whole thing. I have clients that were recently diagnosed with cancer. I have clients who have everything I just listed and more. What about the people who are in a hospital or nursing home with no visitors? What about their loved ones?
And I have too. Now, I'm guessing some of you are going to say this is a first-world problem or I need to get over it. But I'm going to tell you anyhow.
Two years ago today, my friend and colleague passed from this earth. Marissa was interviewing to be an intern with us when I first met her. She was an amazing person. She would make me laugh, sometimes intentionally and sometimes unintentionally. She had a zest for life. She was faithful. She was someone who automatically improved the lives of everyone she met.
She worked in every aspect of our business. Some of my favorite memories involve her. This one time she was out sick for a while. There is someone in our field, who does not have a personality that Marissa appreciated.
So I told her that I was thinking about hiring the person. Her response was pure gold. She just muttered to me on the phone for a few moments.
Even today, I laugh thinking about that conversation.
Here's my dilemma: I want to go to her graveside sometime over the next few days. I know she isn't really there but there is something about grieving and being at someone's gravesite.
I miss Marissa. My wife and children miss Marissa. My son who was five when she passed, mentions her and how he saw his momma cry when she found out Marissa had died.
So today, take a moment and think about people you know who are grieving over something other than the disruption this virus has caused in our world. I know those are the people who would have been on Marissa's mind today.
Do something for them today. Write them a letter or email (you might have to google how to do this safely). Reach out to someone you know who might be missing someone today.
Then go and hug your loved ones living in your house. Tell them how much you love them.
None of us know what tomorrow holds.
I miss you, my Friend.