Nostalgia for the Early Days of the Pandemic? Meet Pandemic Nostalgia

It’s hard to believe we’ve been navigating a pandemic for over 18 months. Many of us feel drained and overwhelmed by a time that seems to have both flown by and dragged on endlessly. Remember the first time we heard about “the novel coronavirus”? It certainly felt different then. Initially, there was a sense of optimism that this would be a short-lived issue. Instead, we found ourselves making the best of a tough situation – yes, that included using lemons as a mixer for our drinks as the months rolled on.

The spring of 2020 was a whirlwind of uncertainty and anxiety as our world was turned upside down. In retrospect, there was an odd comfort in knowing that we were all facing this together—until that notion quickly unraveled. Enter pandemic nostalgia.

Everyone had their own unique experiences. Were you a parent suddenly thrust into the role of teacher? Or perhaps you adapted to working from home on a moment’s notice? Maybe you were a high school senior who lost out on prom and graduation? Or, tragically, did you lose someone dear to you? We all experienced loss. This past year and a half is time we can never reclaim. So, is there value in reflecting on what has transpired?

Understanding Pandemic Nostalgia

Merriam-Webster defines nostalgia as a mix of pleasure and sadness triggered by memories of the past, combined with a longing to relive those moments. But what about pandemic nostalgia? Was there truly any pleasure? And aren’t we still entrenched in it? Honestly, when this is all over, I hope we never face anything like this again—not in my lifetime, nor my children’s, or their children’s. Yet, science tells us that this won’t be the last pandemic we encounter. So, what exactly are we yearning for?

As Andrew Thompson, a psychology expert focused on nostalgia and memory, explains, “Reflecting on aspects that emerged during the pandemic helps people make sense of and grow from the experience.” When framed that way, it does make some sense. The early days were filled with the mantra, “We’re all in this together,” echoed in every advertisement and podcast.

For many, the start of the pandemic felt less like chaos and more like an opportunity to pause. With nowhere to go and fewer distractions, it was a time to explore new hobbies, start side projects, or focus on personal growth. We connected with loved ones more genuinely. Life felt simpler—if you were among those who had fewer responsibilities.

It’s natural to feel nostalgic for those early days when we were baking bread and applauding healthcare workers instead of engaging in divisive behavior. We made paper hearts to showcase hope and resilience for our children. Yet, as we realized that some of the people we thought we knew were vastly different from our perceptions, it became a difficult truth to accept.

Caught Between the Past and Present

For others, the idea of solidarity quickly faded. While many wanted to believe in unity, reality showed us otherwise. Our world was flipped upside down from day one, and there was no pause from the constant worry to keep loved ones safe. We transitioned from sharing masks and sanitizer with neighbors to questioning their choices not to use them anymore.

Since the pandemic began, we’ve witnessed significant social justice movements and participated in elections that aimed to bring more rational leadership. Conversely, we’ve encountered threats to our democracy and witnessed alarming events that feel more like fiction than reality. So, where do we go from here?

A year and a half is a lengthy period, and we’re still navigating through it. Each day brings new challenges, and the world we once knew feels distant. Yearning for a time we’re still living in is perplexing. While some have chosen to return to old habits, many of us are still waiting to see what this “new normal” will entail.

Though some aspects of pre-pandemic life may be left behind, there are valuable lessons to carry forward: kindness, compassion, and the recognition that we are all part of a large human family striving to navigate this complicated landscape. That’s what I find myself longing for.

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Summary

The pandemic has led to a complex mix of feelings as we reflect on the early days marked by uncertainty and a sense of unity, alongside the challenges that have since arisen. While some cherish memories of simpler times and community spirit, the reality of ongoing struggles reminds us that we are still navigating through difficult waters. Moving forward, it’s essential to carry forward the values of kindness and compassion as we adapt to our new world.