We Are All In The Same Boat ... Not Really

Let’s think about this. “For some, quarantine is optimal. They are re connecting with family and friends, are comfortable in their homes wearing their casual clothes, sipping coffee or wine while for others this could be a desperate financial and family crisis. Some want to go back to work because they do not qualify for unemployment and are running out of money. Others want to kill those who break the quarantine.” What about the ones who live alone and are facing endless loneliness while others are enjoying the peace and restful time with family?

“Some have experienced the near death of the virus, some have already lost someone from it and some are not sure if their loved ones are going to make it. While others don’t believe the virus is such a big deal.”

I have to speak for myself and say that although I was concerned about my family and friends, our country and community, I was enjoying the peaceful time at home, waking up a bit later, seeing clients through FaceTime and getting caught up on all the things I had wished I had time to do. I thought all was stable until my older brother got diagnosed with COVID-19 and was hospitalized.

Unless you’ve been through this, it is very difficult to describe the emotions, the uncertainty you feel, the trauma and the heartache this virus presents. Not only are you concerned about your loved one, you are unable to support them and their family. I wanted to help out as much as I could, but could not expose myself to the virus. I wanted to be close to my sister-in-law and comfort her at a time like this and could not because she could be a carrier. Suddenly, my peaceful and restful time at home changed overnight with intense concern and worry. I no longer enjoyed my quiet and peaceful home. I am now with daily worry.

We may all be in the same storm but not in the same boat. Let’s not judge others for wanting to return to work, or socialize because they can no longer take the loneliness or underestimate the loss of a loved one to this virus. It is a loss unique in itself …. losing someone you love and knowing they are taking their last breath alone.

Let’s not judge. We don’t know what it’s like to live in someone else’s reality. So even when you think you’ve gone through the same situation as another person be careful not to assume you experienced it in the same way as the other individual. You never know exactly what someone else may be going through. Let’s have some empathy.

During this crisis, Hellenic Therapy Center, Scotch Plains, NJ, is offering FaceTime, Zoom or Phone sessions. Please feel free to call 908-322-0112 to schedule an appointment or visit our website at www.hellenictherapy.com