Remembrance or celebration? Simply put, it depends on reasons and attitudes. I certainly have experienced them both this year and both have affected my life forever. Yours, too?
As I sit and write this article, I’ve been thinking of that dire announcement, approximately a year ago, when the news of a pandemic was proclaimed. Based on what I’ve heard in the media and from local conversation, I’m not sure anyone could have guessed the scope of devastation the COVID plaque would inflict internationally or that it would last this long. Now, entering our third wave of the pandemic, whose life hasn’t been affected?
For me, it meant the cancellation of a long-anticipated visit from our son and daughter-in-law from out of province, a disappointment deeply felt. Then, though some may think it strange, I sincerely miss my daily bus rides to town. I’d take the first bus in the morning, get off at the walking track, do my laps, catch the next bus heading into town and then walk over to my favourite shop for tea. As a precaution, I no longer take public transportation. Above all, I miss attending church in person. Thank God for Zoom but it “just ain’t the same.” Garbled conversations through a voice-altering mask, no more hand-shaking and no hugs are losses that I can only hope and pray will be restored sometime in my lifetime.
But enough of this negativity, because I have so much to celebrate! First, vaccinations, bus drivers who return my hand-waves and I can drive to town for my tea. Small things but major reasons to celebrate. Above all, our hope and future has been assured because of humanity’s greatest cause to celebrate: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
“Celebrate God. Sing together — everyone! All you honest hearts, raise the roof!” Psalm 32:11
