July 24, 25

The days are melting together in the summer heat. Morning comes early and the evening lingers on into the night. I have struggled to sit and write, seeking time and inspiration in the busyness of the summer days. Boat tours, seeing friends, life has very much returned to the way it was before. Before Covid, before lockdowns and fear. Summer has sprouted in our amazing valley and we are making connections. We are living as if there were no insidious infection hovering in the distance.

Yet it’s still there.

Every time there is a sneeze, or a cough, I wonder. In the back of my mind I feel a niggling of fear. Life seems normal but we are an outbreak away from returning to days of lockdown. We must not let our guard down; we must remain vigilant and continue to practice the things that helped stop the spread.

The last four months have taught us much. I have learned a lot about myself and my society. We can co-exist together and remain apart. Hugs are not allowed, no handshakes and for heaven’s sake, stay out of each other’s personal space. I took a nice group of twenty-something Albertan’s on the boat; the group we have been warned about. Young people are being lumped together as people who don’t care, don’t respect the guidelines. My excited and fun loving group from our neighbouring province were very respectful. They kept their distance, they washed their hands and they understood the danger that the coronavirus represents. Even as the alcohol flowed, they understood inherently to give me space. They were happy to enjoy the simplicity of floating on a boat and soaking in the beauty of Okanagan Lake.

Last night we connected with some friends at a roaring fire in my back yard. The connection that a campfire brings to a group of people transcends time. As we connect with each other we connect with our ancestors. Flames danced in front of us as we sat mesmerized by the blazing logs that were being consumed. Glowing embers enfolded the conflagration of fire and light while we laughed and listened to stories of life.

Sitting in the distance almost forgotten lays an insipid and unfeeling enemy. Will this latest upsurge in cases that has shadowed our amazing corner of the world become the dreaded second wave? Or will people withdraw and be more careful. Will caution prevail and keep us together apart from each other in the summer heat.

I will continue to do my part. I will wear a mask when I can’t keep my distance. I will respect other people and expect the same. I am confident we can beat this viral foe and remain safe. I will do my part and trust that others will do the same.