Coronavirus Shopping
Coronavirus Pandemic Blog Series: Post #2
The first time I went shopping post Covid-19, I don't think I'll ever forget. I was alone and it was startling to see empty shelves. I wasn't prepared for it to affect my emotions as it did. I thought about so many people in the world who don't have access to food. I wondered if moms were having trouble finding baby food or formula. And what about diapers and wipes? As I wandered around the store I felt aimless and lost; but also felt a drive and purpose. "What do I choose to buy? Will we be in our house for a long time? Are we going to run out of certain food? What if I can't find the food that my kids eat..."
What I really felt and noticed the most, however, was the lost-ness of people. So many so unsure of what the future would hold. So many different emotions! Anxiety, fear, worry, and even some humor and lightheartedness. There was this strange sense of unity too-one where we all catch eyes and smile knowing we are all facing this "invisible" monster, as President Trump said, together. I won't lie though. I left the store emotionally drained from what was going on.
My next trip was to two different stores. It was almost a week later. People were not as casual and laid back this time. There was less traffic. People were not at stores that didn't sell necessities. Food places were all doing curbside service, or completely closed. Many elderly people were out shopping alone. Many had masks on. People are eyeing each other, seemingly wondering if the other is sick or carrying the virus. There's distance. Apologetic Eyes or no eye contact at all. Rationing of special items. No bread. No flour. Limit of 2 dozen eggs. Missing many canned foods. Panicking people. Scared people. And a cold, pouring rain day to cap off all the heavy emotions.
At this point we are fully prepared as a family for just about any emergency that could occur. Which-you should always be! We just took it a little farther than normal. The entire US has been told to not be in groups of more than 10 as of March 18th. Some areas have a complete lock down. It's suggested you not even go up to 10, but just stay in your home with your immediate family. People are hesitating to approach other people. And in some areas, it's now a crime to be with more than 10 people.
When I left the store, I was discouraged this time, realizing things would likely continue to get worse. Wondering about people who can't get what they need. And then my mind just keeps going-thinking about families who can't see grandparents and new babies coming with no welcome party and life as we know it stripped away. So many heavy things...but so much hope amidst the chaos, too! That will be for next time, though!
The first time I went shopping post Covid-19, I don't think I'll ever forget. I was alone and it was startling to see empty shelves. I wasn't prepared for it to affect my emotions as it did. I thought about so many people in the world who don't have access to food. I wondered if moms were having trouble finding baby food or formula. And what about diapers and wipes? As I wandered around the store I felt aimless and lost; but also felt a drive and purpose. "What do I choose to buy? Will we be in our house for a long time? Are we going to run out of certain food? What if I can't find the food that my kids eat..."
What I really felt and noticed the most, however, was the lost-ness of people. So many so unsure of what the future would hold. So many different emotions! Anxiety, fear, worry, and even some humor and lightheartedness. There was this strange sense of unity too-one where we all catch eyes and smile knowing we are all facing this "invisible" monster, as President Trump said, together. I won't lie though. I left the store emotionally drained from what was going on.
My next trip was to two different stores. It was almost a week later. People were not as casual and laid back this time. There was less traffic. People were not at stores that didn't sell necessities. Food places were all doing curbside service, or completely closed. Many elderly people were out shopping alone. Many had masks on. People are eyeing each other, seemingly wondering if the other is sick or carrying the virus. There's distance. Apologetic Eyes or no eye contact at all. Rationing of special items. No bread. No flour. Limit of 2 dozen eggs. Missing many canned foods. Panicking people. Scared people. And a cold, pouring rain day to cap off all the heavy emotions.
At this point we are fully prepared as a family for just about any emergency that could occur. Which-you should always be! We just took it a little farther than normal. The entire US has been told to not be in groups of more than 10 as of March 18th. Some areas have a complete lock down. It's suggested you not even go up to 10, but just stay in your home with your immediate family. People are hesitating to approach other people. And in some areas, it's now a crime to be with more than 10 people.
When I left the store, I was discouraged this time, realizing things would likely continue to get worse. Wondering about people who can't get what they need. And then my mind just keeps going-thinking about families who can't see grandparents and new babies coming with no welcome party and life as we know it stripped away. So many heavy things...but so much hope amidst the chaos, too! That will be for next time, though!
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