“together” is an adverb and an adjective. as both, it is a powerful word. as an adverb, it is one of the most reassuring and grounding cues for our hearts. its antonym is “separate” and there are few lonelier words.

during this time of covid we have learned more than we really ever wanted to know about people and their stance on “together”, their dedication of responsibility toward each other, their commitment, or lack thereof, to collaboration and community. these have been hard lessons.

simultaneously, we have learned of people who have dedicated themselves to the safety of others, who have raised community health above self-serving agenda, who have sacrificed for the long-term good rather than pursuing their own short-term pleasure.

and in the midst of all that, there are those – the ones who spurn the brother’s/sister’s keeper together philosophy – who have spent an inordinate amount of time disparaging others – the ones who hold fast to being safe together. and we wonder, why?

though we know we have missed out on plenty through the last year and a half, we also know that we have tried very hard to be aware of what we are doing to keep ourselves and others safe. and the sacrifice has been worth it.

the time of quiet has reminded us of the joy of noise and laughter.

the time of following safety guidelines has reminded us of the ease of the days before – and hopefully after – this pandemic.

and the time of separate has reminded us of the riches of together.

*****

read DAVID’S thoughts this MERELY-A-THOUGHT MONDAY