If We Make It Through December...

I grew up listening to Merle Haggard. This song has taken on a new relevance as we enter December of 2020. Modern times are even more challenging than the song suggests. Sadly, so many people are laid off and will not have the Christmas they long for. We are at a critical point. COVID is spreading faster and numbers are increasing. More than 9 months into it and we still don’t have a handle on it. We are watching too many people get sick, and unfortunately still too many dying.

In the summer I was concerned about moving to Texas where the pandemic was growing, and the population is high. We were mindful, did our best, and thankfully, were not infected, despite the density. It isn’t the size of the town or state that matters. My hometown of Butte, Montana and my family are now in bigger danger. My 86-year-old mom has symptoms and is resting at home. Two of my siblings have tested positive and are dealing with various symptoms. Extended family is also sick and testing positive. It is hard to say how far reaching this may go. I’m concerned not only for my family but for all of the families out there. We pray, we wait, and we hope.

It is maddening to watch the recent spikes and to know that vaccines are just around the corner. People are exhausted. We are tired of giving up so many things. The balance between living our life and being in constant fear takes its toll. December can be a challenging month with the cold and darker days. We typically have the holidays to carry us through. It is amazing how many religious holidays fall in December, Christmas being only one. All seem to share community, gatherings, and connection. They provide opportunity to come together to support one another and to share in celebration. It is what helps so many of us get through December. To weather the transition. That is what is so challenging right now. We long to be together. We want the warmth of connection. We want to hold our loved ones and to be sure they are going to be okay. We want to gather and to morn those that have passed. To attempt to fill the empty spaces that are being left. To celebrate the lives of those lost. I think we also want a distraction. It would be so great to simply enjoy our holidays and to be together.

And, as if that all were not enough right now, we are still lacking solid leadership in our country. The results of our recent election are still being questioned. Relief funding is still uncertain. Many do not know day to day if they will make it through December – physically, spiritually, emotionally, or otherwise. I have not known a more challenging situation in my lifetime. It is hard to say what the month may bring. As I pray and hope, I will also listen to music of earlier times. Please be safe and as strong as you can be this December.