Coronavirus pandemic has taught me just how much things can change in a year
I have learned about myself and my little world during the COVID-19 public health crisis.
I have learned the importance of hand-washing. Next up: Using my car’s blinker.
I have learned the value of an old-fashioned bar of soap. Use gel hand sanitizer a lot can dry your hands.
I have learned a new level of respect for health care workers.
I have learned that I can go a couple of months without a haircut. But I prefer a traditional, once-a-month cut. There’s nothing cool about a white, curly afro on a 60-year-old man. Minus a mustache, for a few weeks, I was resembling Albert Einstein with a perm.
I have learned that I can live with fewer public handshakes and hugs, but only temporarily.
I have learned that I can get in and out of the grocery store in 15 minutes or less as long as I have a written list in hand and stick to it. That includes avoiding wanderings along the beer or ice cream aisles.
I have learned that I am OK wearing a mask. It’s the least I can do, for myself and others. I like it best with a ballcap and sunglasses, especially in the morning because I feel like I’m in disguise.
I have learned to not touch my face, eyes, nose and mouth with my hands, but I’m a little amazed at how often I have the urge.
I have learned that I can work productively at home although I prefer working at my office. I like the people I work with every day. I miss them.
I have learned that I am OK with wearing sweatpants, or shorts, and a ballcap, to work every day.
I have learned to limit my consumption of news during the day or night because it wears me down.
I have learned to continue listening to sports radio even though there’s nothing to talk about, really.
I have learned that the best time to score on toilet paper is when Target opens in the morning.
I have learned to appreciate restaurants who have had organized, efficient carryout services. I will remember their efforts when life returns to normal, whatever and whenever. I have learned to shop more on-line although I still like to try on clothes and shoes before buying.
I have learned that it’s satisfying to read old, favorite books because I find that I missed or forgot something the first time.
I have learned that I never get tired of watching Game 6 of the Cardinals-Rangers 2011 World Series. I can’t imagine how hard it is for a Rangers fan to watch.
I have learned that I miss attending Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.
I have learned one of the best baseball games I’ve watched on TV in recent memory was a recent, black-and-white replay of the 1965 MLB All-Star game on Fox Sports. Willie Mays hit leadoff, followed by Hank Aaron. Bob Gibson pitched two scoreless of relief for the same. I figure the last time I watched that game on TV was when I just turned six years old. Probably with my Grandpa.
I have learned to not talk about COVID-19 in some circles, because it always come back to politics, and I’m tired of talking about politics.
Facebook, Game 7 of the Blues-Bruins & more
I have learned that Facebook is not a reliable, credible source for medical information.
I have learned a peanut butter sandwich is as good for lunch as it is for breakfast, and vice versa.
I have learned that I can Watch Game 7 of the Blues-Bruins Stanley Cup Championship five times and still get a little teary-eyed when the final horn sounds and the Blues players jump over the bench and toward goalie Jordan Bennington. Still seems surreal.
I have learned that Bennington’s effort in the first period of Game 7 was one for the St. Louis history books.
I have learned a lot can change in one year.
