No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man.
– Heraclitus
In Australia right now, we are emerging from COVID-19 lockdown restrictions and starting to dip our toes in society again. Experiences have changed us and the environment we are returning to is no longer the same.
![[Image Description: Melbourne city from above, buildings and church below in late afternoon light.]](https://ladyinthelighthouse.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/ladyinthelighthouse20130128.jpg?w=1000)
As someone who has had to take extended periods of time away from the workplace, social and community situations, it can be a mixed bag of emotions when you are returning back into those spaces and amongst a lot of people.
Some parts can be hard and some parts can be easy.
Falling into comfortable conversation with an old friend you haven’t seen in a while can be such a joy and make you drop your worries and relax into the moment. Getting back into a familiar routine can feel so rewarding after a period of uncertainty and upheaval.
However, sometimes it’s a question like ‘what have you been up to?’ that can stump you, because the obvious and only answer is ‘trying to survive’. It not only applies to people who have been unwell but also people who’ve been on maternity or paternity leave, caring for a loved one, or dealing with a personal matter. Being inundated with questions that seem simple but extremely hard to answer can be overwhelming.
If you’re immune compromised, disabled or dealing with any other chronic medical conditions, emerging into highly populated areas is pretty scary and in some cases, it is disabling. We are a community that is usually on high alert when someone around us is infectious with a cold or the flu, so we are still being very cautious when it comes to COVID-19 and this can mean that we have to stay home to protect ourselves.
So today’s message is short and sweet:
Do what you feel comfortable with.
Take it however you want at your own pace.
Be mindful of the people around you and their needs.
Keep these things in mind if you are around someone who is re-emerging back into the workplace or society.
Keep it in mind for yourself if you feel pressured to do more than you feel comfortable with. You get to choose.
Take good care, Readers. I’ll keep the light on.
![[Image Description: Sydney city from above, Town Hall building and George Street below in afternoon light.]](https://ladyinthelighthouse.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/ladyinthelighthouse20131104-4.jpg?w=1000)
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