Eighteen months ago, the world was thrown into a tailspin; travelling ceased, employees worked from home, children learnt at home, Zoom became popular, and toilet paper became a grocery star. All these changes were the result of the Covid-19 pandemic as it was later declared.
Many of us had plans and dreams which were dashed completed. I had booked trips to Japan and Grenada, as well a cruise to Alaska, all of which never materialized. Initially, I was content to just sit and wait it out. Now, I have determined that I must get out and live, while taking precautions.
Weighing the risks and rewards, I got vaccinated with the Pfizer Covid-19 shot. I am fully aware that the vaccine is not 100% effective against contracting the disease nor preventing illness. What is has proven to do however is significantly reduce my chances of contracting the disease, and if I do get it, I most likely would not need to be hospitalized.
Once I was fully vaccinated, it paved the way for me to do the necessaries. My biannual visit to the dentist was three times overdue. With no mask on and no ability to social distance, I was fearful that I was opening up myself to this disease. I was therefore able to visit the dentist and get my cleaning and checkup done. Fortunately, I practiced great oral hygiene during lockdown, so I did not have any new issues. Thank you Lord, you know I despise going to the dentist.
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I started making travel plans. At first it was only domestic travel. I made my first journey on the Amtrak train from Seattle, Washington to Portland, Oregon. We were required to wear masks at all times except when dining in the dining car. It was a great experience, which I could not have had sitting at home waiting for Covid-19 to walk out into the sunset.
Then finally, I booked an international flight, not to Japan, (they are not allowing visitors), but to Grenada, my homeland. I cannot wait to see my mother and grandmother especially, but also so many others who have been instrumental in my life so far. We need people even though we do not admit it sometimes. Isle of Spice, here I come.
Let me say, I am not being reckless in my behaviour. I continue to mask up, even though the CDC, (Centre for Disease Control) recommended in May 2021, that fully vaccinated individuals can stop wearing masks. I simply take decisions that translate to me living, while I yet have life. So my encouragement to you is to Get out and Live whilst staying safe.
If we wait, we may never live again.
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