The air outside
Mild and humid with Spring rain
Sunlight diffused by the overcast sky
Sidewalks wet with recent rainfall
The neighbors walking their dogs,
Entire families outside to enjoy the fresh air
Kids shooting hoops in the driveway, but only in their own.
Everyone keeping their safe distance, but everyone outside
It looks so normal and pleasant
The way things ought to be, except for the distance.
But I feel the uncertainty, the anxiety, the stress
It surrounds each of us during this time, and yet is invisible.
But I also feel the joy, the presence, and the compassion.
It surrounds us and connects us, even as we stay apart for our community.
It is solidarity, and it looks just like a normal everyday life. The same, but different.