Wish

Looking back to five years ago when it was illegal to be within six feet of others brings a unique mix of emotions. While the lockdown and social distancing were challenging, they also provided time for introspection and a new appreciation for human connection. I often find myself reminiscing about those moments—not because I missed the restrictions themselves, but the way they reshaped our priorities. It was a period marked by heightened awareness of personal space and consideration for others' health. During that time, many discovered creative ways to stay connected despite the physical distance. Virtual gatherings, handwritten letters, and socially distanced meetups became the new normal. These adaptations showed resilience and the human spirit’s ability to find hope in difficult circumstances. I also realized how much we took simple interactions for granted before—like a smile from a stranger or a quick hug from a friend. Today, even though restrictions have eased, the lessons from those times linger. They remind us to cherish personal connections and to be mindful of public health in ways we hadn’t before. This reflection helps me appreciate both the freedoms we now enjoy and the strength we showed as a community when distance was enforced by law.