A Hodgepodge

A friend sent "All Together" a piece she had written about trying to understand how things are now. It was two pages of her fear and worry laid bare, the kind of thing that seems like a drag but which was a balm for me. I thought, "thank goodness, someone else feels these things too." It was also beautifully written. Such a lovely gift to receive.

I wrote a rant about the man-child in the White House to which I won't subject you. I needed to write it, to respond to a liar, but he will ever acknowledge he lies, that he's ever wrong, that he harms others. There's nothing to do but move on from him and hope fate sweeps him away soon.

Another friend called about her situation. It's not good. A loved one tested positive but is unable to care for himself. But it's not all bad. Her parents will care for him she has family with whom she's staying and being cared for.

Yesterday, I had a good meeting and felt renewed vigor from it. Some of that vigor remains today.

My daughters and wife are healthy. It turns out that our house is one of the happier houses I know. It has often been that way, but what a comfort that in these times it's as true as ever.

There is work to do. This morning I drafted two grants for emergency funding, my small part in keeping the community centers running. Writing felt like doing something. I'll keep searching for those opportunities.

Our dog and the cats have help. Last night, though she does not love hugging or cuddling, our dog let me hug and cuddle her as she curled on her bed waiting to be allowed some peace. She gave me comfort. I give her cheese and chicken while I prepare dinner. We both think that's a good deal.

My daughters went outside to paint. Then the rain came. Governor Cuomo wants everyone staying indoors. What does that mean for us?

Tonight the wind will tear through our region. I lowered the basketball hoop. We are charging our devices in case we lose power. I was never one for checking weather reports and now it seems almost indecent to follow any news but that of the virus. Who wants to think about the ten-day forecast?

I'm inside listening to a Cannonball Adderley record on my turntable. I'll have lots of time to listen to records now.

When I see anyone from my window or when walking down the street, I wave and say hello. We're all our brothers' keepers now and should have been all along.

Take care of you and yours. If we all do that, then everyone will be cared for.