By Carly Silver
Harlequin Romantic Suspense Associate Editor Carly Silver takes us on her journey through the past year, looking forward and the power of holding on to what was gained.
Like fellow editor Julia Williams, the way I’ve kept myself active during the past year has been walking. To the park, to the river, to the grocery store, to meet friends, to stare at pigeons. Jogging? Nope, not going to happen. I’ve walked along at varying degrees of speed, ranging from plodding to speed-striding, through most corners of my neighborhood and its environs.
Thankfully, I’ve gotten both of my vaccinations now. At this point, where do I go from here? Do I hold my breath and rejoin a gym (staying masked up, of course) and pack myself into a group of sweating people to use a stationary bike or cross trainer? Or do I continue retreading the same paths well into 2021?
I want to move forward, but this lingering fear brought on by the pandemic will long outlast this period, I fear. But is that entirely a bad thing? When offices eventually reopen, we’ll be circling one another warily, rightfully skeptical of getting too close, no matter the precautions. But I’ll have to battle natural hesitancy and concerns with my genuine desire to relate to my coworkers and feel like I’ve rejoined my team once again.
Life will never really be the “same” again for anyone, so I can’t say I won’t be cautious while “resuming” a prior existence. However, I don’t feel I should discard the lessons I learned during this past year. In fact, the very nature of having to tread and retread those same blocks day in and day out has shown me that I’m far more resilient than I’ve given myself credit for in the past. No matter what opportunities may open up—gyms, offices, reunions, and whatnot—I still have the routine I created for myself to rely upon. And that’s good to know.
One reply on “Reflecting on the Past Year”
Thanks for sharing. I say keep up the outdoor walking. There’s nothing like being part of nature to stir our hearts and keep us going.
Comments ( 7 )
I spent the entire shutdown working. Had no time to wind down. I didn’t see my son much when school shutdown. My one co worker was told to stay home for 3 weeks so I picked up her hours. This year has been really crappy.
Ugh, Janell. Here’s hoping the rest of your summer is better.
Thanks for the info, Carol! Everyone is different in how they deal with the shutdown! I stay at home all the time since I don’t work so I haven’t been too effected but my shopping and errands sure have been effected!
Valri, I’ve been doing most of my shopping online. My local Target is still low on some items – mostly cleaning supplies. Grocery store is pretty much back to normal. Most of the dining in our town is outdoor. I can’t imagine have school-age kids!
Wow–getting your creative process on track must have been daunting–especially with “extra-large dog” glad to have you home. You don’t like coffee–I love coffee and have enjoyed my fortifying 2 cups in the morning even more than usual! How as COVID affected your story lines and characterizations? Best Wishes for all releases!
Interesting question, Virginia. You’ll have to tell me if the tone of my “COVID” books changed any! LOL
Life has changed so much! My dad passed Feb 2. The assisted living facility my folks were at went into hardcore lockdown the beginning of March. Mom couldn’t leave her apartment for 4 months! She was on the third floor, Will be 89 in two months & doesn’t use the phone. My husband and I remodeled the lower level completely and moved her in with us July 1. What a life change and difficult transition for the 3 of us! But we’re working thru it!