With the continuously rising cases of COVID here in Philly, the government issued new restrictions last week to try to slow the spread of the virus. This means that things that have been able to open - such as gyms, museums, and restaurants with indoor dining - have to close back down again, and indoor gatherings are generally prohibited.
When I first saw the new guidelines, I felt frustrated with the constant change, especially because I came here to build connections and to engage in the neighborhood and city, and it feels confining to have the options for doing so once again limited. However, as the week went on, I was grateful to find that many of the things I engage in and look forward to will continue to happen. My church has a big enough space that we can continue to worship on Sunday mornings in person (religious gatherings are one of the only types of indoor gatherings that are still permitted, thankfully). The Spanish mass I have been attending will likewise continue, which is exciting because that is one of the highlights of the week. The Philadelphia Trail Club is continuing to hike, so I can still look forward to the upcoming "pie hike" and "holiday hike" that I have signed up for. And public transportation is still running, so I can continue to go the trail each day to run.
It can feel confining to constantly have new and changing restrictions. My work can sometimes feel confining too, as I get asked to do more and more things, few of which feel meaningful. In these confining, restrictive times, I am finding it important to continue to hold onto what I have to hold onto. I have been consistently doing yoga in the mornings before work, and this practice has been such a great way to start my days. I have been spending time journaling and reflecting. I am continuing to run outside each day, even as the weather gets colder. I have been meeting with my college roommates weekly over Zoom to continue to connect with one another. I have been ending each day with a prayer and meditation. Again and again this year, I find myself coming back to the importance of these grounding liturgies. We need things that give us life and space, especially during these times when we are constantly being restricted. I pray that I can continue to find life here.
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