I am the definition of a social butterfly and feed off of socializing with others. I often find that people ask me a version of “how has your COVID experience been?” in a way that’s implying this grand shift to my social life and things within that realm. But here’s the thing – nothing for me has changed socially. I think people are expecting a different answer but if I gave them what they wanted to hear then it would be lacking in truth. It’s not the answer I want to say. It’s not, but it’s raw and real. There has not been this grand negative shift in my social life like there has been for everyone else during this pandemic. This COVID-19 isolation is my normal. Welcome to my normal. I don’t have everyday friends to geek out on the latest album releases, newest movies, and tv shows with. I don’t have someone to chat with and ask me how my day was. I don’t have someone to run random errands with just because. I don’t have someone to take road trips or go out for drinks. My mom and therapeutic doctor, Josh, are the closest things I have and for that I am extremely grateful. BUT…I am alone most of the time. Alone. ALONE. Alone. Are you alone? If you are, I’m with you. I feel you. I understand. It’s not from a lack of trying, because I have even become a passionate advocate for acceptance and inclusion, doing my best to make a change for others. I don’t feel sorry for myself. It’s just an “is” that people need to hear about. Extend your hand to another human and be an everyday friend.
