I can always count on my BFF to give me new perspective. As we contemplated the new COVID-19-laced future together via text, I lamented how I was likely to be alone forever. She pointed out how having others to contend with adds to the burden, sorrow and pain. That being alone has its own unique benefits.
As I lay in bed considering this, I realized the momentousness of her statement. I have never lived as freely as I do today. I do whatever I want, whenever I want. No one critiques me, evaluates my choices or my outcomes. I work when I want, if I want, I lay in bed whenever I feel tired, I listen to podcasts all day if I choose, I read the paper. I workout when I want to, where I want to. I have my roomies to provide some company, and also to give me someone to care for, which I need, but they don’t have much to say about my life choices.
I believe I was allowing negativity bias to cloud over the positive implications of this freedom, even more so during this pandemic. Having to contend with someone else’s approach to the public health in this environment would be a major source of stress if we were not aligned in our thinking. I imagine it is ruining relationships around the globe.
I think humans tend to toss freedom around as a word without real meaning. I can say with clarity that I am currently living as freely as I ever have, and it would be a shame if I didn’t appreciate it. So appreciate it I shall.
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