Funny times we find ourselves in, friends.

How are you? 

Have you missed people asking you that? It’s often such a trite greeting. But today I realized: no one has asked me that since I began working from home last Friday. Typically we ask this question at least a dozen times throughout the day…

• to co-workers we pass in the hallway
• to neighbors while on a walk
• to cashiers at the grocery store

The list can go on and on. “How are you?” was a normal part of our days.

But since having a break from people and normal daily greetings, I’ve found myself wondering…how actually are those people doing? Beyond the typical answer of “fine,” I’d truly love to know how people are feeling right now.

I wonder how my co-worker is? She’s probably feeling antsy. I’ll bet this is a tough time for  her social and servant-hearted personality.

I wonder if my neighbor is tired. Raising three children is hard enough, without social distancing. I hope she knows how courageous she is to care for her children so well.

I wonder if my cashier has a family to provide for or student loans to pay off. The uncertainty of the economy is probably stressful for them right now.

I guess what I’m trying to say is that my perspective has changed. This pandemic has led me to wonder more about other people; to sense their feelings in a new way.

So if you haven’t been asked today, how are you? I care.

KAT
Currently listening to “At Least For Now” by Justin Bieber