Sarah Warsi

Welcome to March, dear friends! Today is also the day that pretty much all restrictions except for mask-wearing are lifted in Ontario. This means full capacity is once again permitted at all venues and you are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination to enter most establishments given the overall vaccination rates. I think some of us thought this day would never come given the yo-yo life we’ve been living for 24 months now.

*Sigh* It’s a good feeling.

There is a renewed sense of optimism in the air. It’s crazy to believe how things were around this time two years ago. But, as the saying goes, there is always light at the end of the tunnel – though, I’ll admit, this was one long-ass tunnel!

I personally can’t wait to attend a concert again. I was supposed to see Alicia Keys in 2020 and the show got postponed twice and I eventually just canceled my tickets. I think as a whole, we’ve really missed that crowd-fueled vibe for too long now – whether it’s with concerts or sporting events. To have those venues back at full capacity will definitely be something to look forward to.

I went to a restaurant a few days ago and the place was just bustling – like old times. It was a vibe that I don’t think I’ve seen literally since this all started. It was quite refreshing, to say the least.

Traveling is another thing that we can find a real sense of enthusiasm around again with restrictions easing to a level that is as close to ‘normal’ as we’ve seen in two years.

COVID is not over, but its control over us and our lives is becoming a thing of the past. It’s now a matter of living with this virus, rather than running away from it – much like we’ve been doing with the flu for years.

As we move forward, let’s remember some of the valuable lessons this pandemic has taught us: 

Gratitude is everything – This is self-explanatory. The pandemic has taught us to truly not take anything or anyone for granted. Remember when you went to the grocery store and there was literally no toilet paper and other essential items?! And remember when zoom, WhatsApp, or the house party app became the glue that kept you connected with your loved ones when there was no other way?

Patience is everything  – The pandemic has taught us to really not sweat the small stuff and to pick and choose our battles. Cabin fever became a real deal during all the lockdowns. If you came out of this without wanting to throttle those you live with, then kudos to you! haha

Kindness is everything – We’ve all been through the wringer and back. The pandemic has taught us to really open our hearts and minds and just be kind to one another. While you might not always understand someone’s moves, empathy and understanding can do wonders for people dealing with their own internal struggles.

Peace is everything – It’s an understatement to say that this pandemic has been mentally and physically taxing. Keeping our sanity in check has been a challenge, to say the least. But as we move forward, we must continue to value the sanctity of our inner peace. That is the driving factor for our mind, body, and soul being in sync with one another.

Overall, this is not about going back to how things were pre-pandemic. Not at all. That version of yourself cannot relate to the person you are today. This is about evolving, growing, and learning from the entire experience and coming out as empowered, refreshed, and resilient individuals.

Onwards and upwards from here. Love, light and peace to all of you.