Vaxxed Hopes

 


I was reminded, on the 209th day of 2021, how much Covid is still affecting me, even in my daily life and routine.  First, the Phillies game on 7/28/2021 was cancelled due to an outbreak of Covid-19 in the Washington Nationals team.  Ironic since the Nats have met the 85% vaccinated threshold and the Phillies are lagging behind, some reports have them as low as 55%, but they dispute that.  And then there was the text, from Sarah, about how three of her colleagues at Temple Student Health have tested positive for Covid.  Each of them had chosen not to get the vaccine, even though they work in a front-line health care setting.  That frustrated me more than the protesters at the President's speech today who are still denying that Covid is a problem (or even a thing at all) and railing against mask protocols.  And then there were the arguments I got into, online (I know, I know, a cesspool of opinions), with people who are adamant that the vaccine is dangerous and, when presented with a logical statement of facts, tinged with my opinion as well, replied with derision and disdain.  I tried to treat them with respect even though I vehemently disagree with their opinion, but I guess that is a lost art in our society (and not just online, but especially there) these days.  I do continue to have Vaxxed Hopes, though.  I hear that there are increased rates in some of the hardest hit (because of low vax rates) areas of the US.  I hear that 66% of the US 12 and older population has now had at least one shot.  But it's not enough, today's events show that.  We need more so that we do not end up back in our homes again when it gets colder and the cold and flu season starts in the Fall.  I hope that I can continue to be patient and that I can even convince ONE person to get the vaccine who has been reticent or hesitant.  I hope the vaccine soon becomes available for kids aged 2-12.  I hope that people can come to the realization that wearing a mask is not about oneself or one's personal freedoms, but about being a respectful member of society and having care of others' comfort and health.  I have a lot of hopes about this vaccine and people's behaviors, but I have a lot of fears too.  I am going to try to lean into the hope, while realizing that the fears are real.  Hope you can all do the same as well.  And, of course, if you have not already, PLEASE get the vaccine.

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