Nearly 60 people from across the United States joined us in an online discussion. The first thing they told us, loud and clear, was that while they can’t seem to get enough toilet paper, they have had more than enough of COVID-19. They wrote their “Dear John” letters to COVID-19
Dear John Letters
to COVID-19
“Dear COVID-19, It’s been a revelation. At first you were subtle. Absent. Hard to get. Then you started messing with my friends. Like what? Where did you get the boldness? And now, you’ve just about ruined everything. I can’t even visit my grandchildren now you’ve messed things up so bad. So I’m writing you off. Go. . . Just go. We will not miss you.”
“Dear COVID-19, Killing people ain’t cool buddy. This isn’t what I signed up for. You’re just too high maintenance. I know you’re on the cover of every magazine and newspaper in the country, but fame doesn’t last and sadly, neither can we. It’s time to kick rocks now. Deuces!!!”
“Dear COVID-19, I am so ready for you to move on. It has been great to see others helping others and my hope is when you are gone people will remember how important it is to be kind everyday. I am saddened by the devastation you have brought to many families and praying our government can work together to find a solution now and to future outbreaks. Happy to see you go!!”
We asked them to look on the sunny side and describe some great things that have emerged during this forced period of isolation and self-reflection.
5 Main Themes Emerged
1: How We Communicate
“Connecting with friends, virtually, where before there wasn’t as much time”
“I’m using technology to connect more often and have heard from people I don’t normally hear from. The shutdown is forcing us to slow down and reflect on what’s important. I think people are placing more value on relationships and finding new ways to connect with each other.”
“Calling friends and family from my home town that I usually email. Writing (I mean handwritten) letters.”
2: Relationships
“Spend time with animals. I have so many animals that it’s hard to give them all the equal amount of attention they deserve.”
“We’re getting creative to make human connections. My friends and I have a weekly Zoom happy hour going now we can see each other and make sure we don’t drink alone.”
“Getting creative with things to do with the kids. Has made me really appreciate teachers.”
3: Personal Endeavors
“I’m discovering that I enjoy watching live streaming events for music performances which are popping up everywhere. I’ve even made new friends through the live chats for these events.”
“My house is probably cleaner than it’s ever been. Hopefully, a new habit.”
4: Environment – Give the World a Break
“With the huge reduction in traffic, the environment is getting a much-needed break.”
“The reduction in pollution is amazing! I hope once this quarantine is over, we will all see the beauty around us and finally commit to taking care of our planet. I’m thinking of ways I can reduce my carbon footprint even more once this ends.”
5: Personal Finances
“I’m saving a lot of money on gas, entertainment, and eating out. Hopefully, I will have developed some new habits, so I won’t go back to my old spending ways when the pandemic is over.”
“Less money spent, as I’m not out shopping for no reason. Eating healthier, as we are not eating out.”
“Appreciating my privileges and blessings more than ever.”
