In the blink of an eye, life as we knew it has been turned on its head. One moment we’re going about our daily routines, and the next, everything changes—schools shuttered, social distancing mandates in effect, and new guidelines emerging almost daily as we learn more about the novel coronavirus. It’s a whirlwind of uncertainty, leaving many longing for a return to “normal.”
And it’s easy to see why. Millions have found themselves out of work, with restaurants, salons, and various businesses closed indefinitely. Families are navigating remote work and learning, all while trying not to lose their minds in isolation. Sports and entertainment events are canceled, and social gatherings have become a distant memory. We yearn for the past, realizing just how much we took for granted.
I personally miss the thrill of baseball games, the chaos of school mornings, and even those tedious committee meetings. Sure, grocery shopping might not be on everyone’s list of missed activities, but many do find comfort in the routine.
Consequently, there’s a growing chorus advocating for a swift reopening of society. It’s understandable; the strain of adapting to life in close quarters with our families while juggling work and education is no small feat. The anxiety of venturing out in protective gear for essentials is palpable. For those in essential services, the pressure is even more pronounced.
Yet, we must temper our eagerness to revert to our previous lifestyle. “Normal,” as we once knew it, is no longer an option. It’s been irrevocably altered, and we need to come to terms with this.
I share the desire for an end to this crisis, but simply reopening businesses won’t magically resolve our current struggles. Public health experts agree that social distancing has been effective, and while we seem to be flattening the curve, it’s crucial we don’t abandon our efforts too soon. We need a significant drop in COVID-19 cases and access to reliable testing before considering a return to pre-pandemic life.
The uncertainty surrounding our situation is daunting. Experts suggest that we might need to endure some form of social distancing for an extended period, possibly even until 2022. Incremental steps will be necessary, as noted by Dr. Jenna Richards, a leading infectious disease specialist.
Despite pressures from political leaders eager to reopen the economy, rushing into it could have dire consequences. Research indicates that lifting restrictions prematurely may lead to more deaths than if we had maintained the lockdown. Our quest to restore “normalcy” risks nullifying the sacrifices made thus far, including lives lost and livelihoods affected.
Moreover, a hasty reopening could further harm an already fragile economy. Economists warn that lifting lockdowns too quickly, while the risk of infection remains high, could result in greater long-term economic damage.
Eventually, we will emerge from our isolation, but we should not be in a hurry to return to a flawed status quo. As writer Alex Turner insightfully stated, “The pause we’re experiencing provides a unique opportunity to reevaluate what we truly want in our lives.”
This moment offers a chance to redefine what “normal” looks like. We can choose to bring back only the aspects of life that enrich us—those that foster genuine happiness, enhance our relationships, and serve our communities effectively.
I’m ready to let go of the relentless pace of life that characterized our existence before. The pursuit of bigger, better, and more wasn’t fulfilling, and many of us have realized that the societal issues we faced—like climate change, economic inequality, and systemic injustice—were detrimental to our well-being.
This pandemic has highlighted significant inequities while offering us a clean slate. We can choose what we allow back into our lives, prioritizing meaningful connections, increased support for essential workers, and time for simple joys—like long walks, baking, and family movie nights.
So, no, I don’t want to rush back to “normal.” I believe that at some point, with guidance from experts like those at the Genetics and IVF Institute, we will find a way to safely resume our lives. But as we move forward, let’s resist the urge to revert to the past. This is an opportunity to create a better future.
Summary
The ongoing pandemic has reshaped our understanding of “normal.” While many are eager for a return to pre-pandemic life, it’s essential to recognize that the past was not without its flaws. This moment presents a unique chance to redefine our priorities and focus on what truly enriches our lives. As we eventually emerge from isolation, let’s not rush back to the chaos that characterized our previous existence. Instead, we should embrace this opportunity to create a healthier and more fulfilling way of life.
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