Family is one of the most important things to have in life, in my opinion.
They don’t even have to be related to you by blood; the only emotions required to bind and bring them all together is love, respect, and faith in one another.
That’s why this year… Instead of “going home for the holidays”, I’ve decided to stay away.
Hospital Reports have shown Covid cases are spiking. Again. And this time around, I believe it’s going to hit even harder.
Unfortunately, because cases have both risen in Maine and Massachusetts, both states have elected to take the other off their Exemption List. In other words, if I were to travel between the two states, I have to have a form filled out, a Covid test taken, or quarantine for 14 days in each state.
Yes, I could jump through those hoops and get everything done. It would certainly allow me to go see my parents (not to mention the kitties!)
But with the ever-growing possibility that I might be exposed, I’m not willing to take that risk. I love my family beyond logic. I want them to stay healthy during this crap.
So, I’m going to do what’s right (and smart!) by them: I’m going to stay home and share my own version of Thanksgiving Dinner with them over Zoom.
Of course it won’t be the same as all the other Thanksgivings in the past. But then again, this year hasn’t been the same as all the other years either. As the old adage goes, “Desperate times call for desperate measures.”
If staying away from my family is what it takes to spend future holidays with them in person, then dammit, I’m gonna take it!
I pray you all stay safe this holiday season. We’re gonna need it!
L.J. LaBree 