Within These Strange Times, Joy

I imagine there are very few places in the world that are unaware of the virus stalking the globe.  It has certainly wreaked havoc and pain on so many places, not the least of which is our very own country.  Our hearts ache for the anguish and loss of so many.  But our hearts warm at the generosity of ordinary folks who spend time making masks, donating to others in need, being on the front line of medical care when their own lives may be at risk.
 
I have to say that I am very proud of Vermont.  We are saddened because even in Vermont, there have been losses, and our hearts are with those who are grieving.  But the virus has not hit us hard here.  Vermonters have stepped up...by staying at home, by wearing masks and gloves in public, by figuring out how to help from home, and to communicate with loved ones who are far away, even while having to stay home.  Life is different, for sure.  But there are some good things in this new reality, some new joys.  Someone told me recently that for the first time in they-can’t-remember-how-long, the family sits down and eats dinner together.  In my own world, in mostly having to stay home  (a few outings for the shelter), I am realizing I don’t have to hurry about anything.  I can slow down and be deliberate about my day.  I am feeling much less stress in a simpler life.  And I must say, my house is starting to lose its clutter.  There is time to look at everything and decide what really matters, what to keep in my life.  I am reading more.  I am cooking more.  I am talking on the phone with friends and family and loved ones and actually hearing their voices, rather than emailing.
And I have to say, my pets are ecstatic about my being around.  I am even petting several of my cats who were too shy to be touched before.
So...let’s keep the faith, let’s look after one another, let’s see what we have learned about ourselves and life that we want to keep.  We will get through this.  Vermont is wonderful; St. Johnsbury is wonderful.  Kingdom Animal Shelter is wonderful.  And its volunteers and supporters and adopters and donors and kitties are all wonderful.  And once again, hopefully not too far off, we will be able to open up our joyous, bright, sunny Shelter...where the cats like it so much that they’d rather just stay.
 
-Helen Morrison
Board President