Keeping our distance from friends, family, and the places we love has been difficult on all of us - and it’s presented some pretty unique challenges for me as well.
The pandemic hit during my last few days in New Mexico right before I was set to take off on a Colorado road trip to deliver a speech. From there, I planned to explore Utah, Nevada, and end up somewhere in the Northwest. Needless to say, plans changed.
For starters, all my speeches, trips, and travel plans went by the wayside in a matter of moments leaving me in a state of limbo as to where to go next. I decided to hold out in Santa Fe for as things quickly closed down around me.
Secondly, it’s hard to shelter at home when you’re homeless. I’ve had to bounce between a few AirBNBs while seeing how the travel conditions shook out in the short term. Not sure how long I’ll be here, but grateful to have found safe places to stay with everything I need to get by.
So how have I been spending my time? Working during the day, working out in my living room, and spending time out in nature. Santa Fe is surrounded by mountains, forests, and hiking trails so I’m grateful to step out in the wilderness.
Social distancing sucks for sure, especially doing it alone and in a place where I don’t know many people. I’ve never spent so much time alone. Somedays it takes a toll on me.
But so many people out there have it far worse, and I’m grateful for what I have. I know you’re out there struggling too, but just remember:
If you’re sheltering in place with family and loved ones, you have it better then those who shelter alone.
If you’re stuck at home but stocked with supplies, you have it better than those struggling to feed their families.
If you have the ability to work remote, you have it better than our friends who are suffering from being laid off.
And if you have your health, you’re better off than people who are struggling to stay alive.
So let’s be grateful for what we have and help those we can. Times are tough, but we’ll get through this together.
And rest assured I’ll be doing my part, staying 600 feet away from the next living soul.