I just returned from a trip to Ohio, my home state. It has been two years since I had "gone home" so this trip was one I really was looking forward to. I visited all those family and friends that mean so much to me but the pandemic really throws a curve ball in many directions that I hadn't even considered before. 
Y Bridge Zanesville, Ohio
First of all, I wore a mask inside and out, no matter who I was around. It indeed was a "pain" and I easily could have let my guard down and used an excuse to not wear it but my only thought was that I was the outsider and would not forgive myself if someone got sick because of me.
Others had the same concern, which I thoroughly understood. This in itself was enough for me to actually cut some of my plans short, not wanting to expose anyone to something that I may unwittingly transmit. Yes, this trip was different but my mask, keeping a safe distance and washing my hands often made all the difference.
This whole past year has thrown all of us a curve ball and the way we do things has changed, too. Many fight it and argue against safeguards to keep each of us safe. I get it. However, when I see the numbers continuing to increase I ask myself "why are others so resistant?" I don't want to harbor in place; I don't want to feel like a prisoner that can't go out.
So, why not use the safeguards that the scientists have explained to us that work? It may be just what is needed to stop the ravaging effects of this pandemic. One other thing on my trip: there was no mention of Democrat or Republican when it came to wearing the mask, from me or others! It is a medical situation, not political. So, "going home" was still a wonderful trip. Different or not.
