It’s been hard to believe that four years have passed since the world came to a standstill. The images of an empty Times Square and the eerie feeling that accompanied them are still vivid in my mind. The beginning of the lockdown in San Francisco and the sense of relief when it started to ease up bring back feelings of both fear and hope. The realization of how much the world had changed during my time in West Marin hit me hard when I ventured out to the San Rafael farmer’s market, only to find a stark contrast to the lively scenes I remembered.
The empty ferry ride to San Francisco and the deserted farmer’s market at the Ferry Building painted a picture of a city that had emptied out during the pandemic. The impact of COVID-19 on our lives became even more apparent as I reunited with a friend who had been on the front lines as an ER doctor. The song “Seasons of Love” from Rent resonated in my mind, reminding me of the 525,000 Americans we had lost to the virus.
As a lifelong Civil Rights activist, the social justice implications of the pandemic weighed heavily on me, especially as I reflected on the staggering loss of life. The politicization of vaccinations and the preventable nature of many COVID-19 deaths further added to the sense of despair and frustration.
The lingering effects of the pandemic on children, particularly in terms of their education and mental health, have been a source of concern for me as a parent. The impact on my own daughter and her peers is evident, highlighting the long-lasting effects that this period will have on the next generation.
Surviving the pandemic has brought about a sense of guilt, as I acknowledge the unearned privileges that played a role in my survival. Gratitude for being able to continue my work, launch a trauma healing nonprofit, and spend time with loved ones helps to balance out the guilt and uncertainty of the times we are living in.
In the midst of all this, the hope of spring and signs of recovery bring a sense of renewal and optimism. The emergence of flowers and the coming together of communities in celebration are a reminder that despite the challenges we have faced, there is still reason to hope and find joy in the little moments.
As we move forward, I am committed to leveraging my privileges and survival for the greater good. The upcoming launch of our trauma healing non-profit, Heal At Last, is a testament to this commitment, as we strive to provide accessible and equitable support for those in need.
So as we reflect on the past four years and the changes they have brought, let us hold onto hope and continue to support each other as we navigate the challenges ahead. Share your memories and experiences from this time, as we remember how far we’ve come and look towards a brighter future together. And stay tuned for updates on our upcoming projects and initiatives to support healing and resilience in the post-pandemic world. Thank you for being a part of this journey.
