Reflections on Reconnecting: Who I’m Planning to Visit When Restrictions Are Lifted

As travel restrictions begin to lift, the question arises: who will be the first person you want to visit? For me, the answer is multifaceted, as I plan to reconnect with various significant people in my life.

First and foremost, I will return to my country to see my parents. It's been over six years since my last visit, and it feels like an eternity. The shelter in place order has been a long one for me, and I recently celebrated my fourth month away from them. These pandemic days have made me realize the importance of spending quality time with family. Despite being highly independent, it's clear that family can provide an unmatchable sense of warmth and security. I feel like they are the heartbeat of my life and I'm filled with gratitude to have such a family, no matter how challenging these times have been.

Irsquo;ll also visit my elderly neighbor, whom I first met 21 years ago. She currently resides in a nursing home, and I've written her multiple handwritten letters, one of which she even called me to share her excitement over. I look forward to bringing her her preferred junk food, knowing that at 89, she deserves to indulge. She has been a constant presence in my life, and I am eager to catch up with her face-to-face.

My Family

Though my other children and their partners spent time with us, I miss my oldest son and his partner the most. We used to see them frequently, as my son maintained his work truck at our home, and my daughter-in-lawrsquo;s job was near ours. I would love to see them again, as our last few weeks together were filled with laughter and conversation over meals at home.

I have siblings as well, and I hope to get together with my sister and brother for a meal, or alternatively, a barbecue at my place.

Despite the collective sentiment that my family plans to stay home and away from others until the situation is deemed safe, our decision reflects a preference for limited social interactions. We don't have family nearby, and our desire for privacy extends beyond just the pandemic. Nonetheless, the moment social distancing guidelines are loosened, I am determined to embrace the opportunity to reconnect with those who are close to my heart.

Reconnecting with Personal Needs

Less about visiting friends and colleagues, I also plan to address some personal needs./lg>

First, Irsquo;ll visit a barbershop. My hair has grown to an extent that it now resembles a Darth Vader helmet. The barber chair and the smell of cologne have a calming effect on me, and I look forward to that routine. After my haircut, I plan to fully enjoy a meal with my family in a restaurant, something we haven't done in a long time because we usually dine at home due to the convenience of the situation.

Living in the same town, the proximity of my family is a blessing, allowing me to maintain a regular visiting schedule, even during the restriction period. This small comfort means a lot, especially during such unprecedented times.

Thank you for asking such a thought-provoking question, as it has inspired me to reflect on my personal connections and the importance of coming together again.

May god bless everyone who is away from their loved ones.