Last night and this morning were the first times in a while that I felt the weight of the coronavirus precautions. I know it has been months that measures, official and unofficial, have been in place. Various health authorities have warned that there is still plenty of chance for people to get sick. Roughly it has been about 125 years that the existence of viruses has been known to anyone. I imagine there are plenty of people who still have trouble believing in them. They are said to be about 1/20 the size of average bacteria. I have read of a public lecture that the French scientist Louis Pasteur gave to tell an audience about bacteria and microscopic life. They were shocked and disbelieving. Maybe you have heard of 'vapors', ideas associated with "bad air" that were used to try to understand and visualize how disease could spread before bacteria and viruses were understood.
When nearly all groups of humans are suspect and social distancing is recommended, the problem has a big effect on much of our activity. Many people have lost jobs or been placed on temporary leave because of Covid-19. Currently, about 183,000 U.S. deaths have been attributed to the virus and complications it causes. There are many reports of damage done, damage ongoing and lasting side effects from the virus. For a number of reasons, some people believe the idea of the virus is a plot, or a hoax, or a mistake.
Avoiding groups, wearing face masks can be a surprisingly bothersome practice. Voluntary quarantine can be tiresome. Forsaking meals out, only meeting online by Facetime and Zoom and other software can be irritating. Arriving at a grocery store only to find that I forgot the stupid mask when my intention is to wear one can produce a moment of fatigue and self-disgust.
I believe I have amazing tools to communicate and enjoy my life, virus or not, but sometimes those parts of me that like to do other activities can get mighty tired, frustrated and super-grouchy.
