Remember?

Remember that time we jumped on a plane to chase the world?

When we felt like we could click our heels three times and be on the next grand adventure?

When meeting strangers was a privilege and alone time a priceless commodity?

Remember when you’d drive hours for a hug that was better than a video chat?

Or stay up all night to not have to say goodbye just yet?

When you were tethered to the world and not the internet?

And

Remember when it felt like the world stopped turning and time melted into sunshine and moonlight?

Remember when it felt like nothing was going to be the same again?

When the world started to feel insurmountable?

When it felt like the light was snuffed out at the end of the tunnel?

But

Remember when your loved ones called you just to see how you’re feeling?

And when that animal or child gave you unconditional love when they saw you were sad and didn’t ask why?

Remember how we’re all stuck in a similar way?

Remember it feels this way for all of us.

We’re all dealing with whatever this bizarre, unfortunate reality is.

But remember

You’re not alone.

The world’s not over.

This is planning time. Practicing time.

Learning-to-be-patient time.

Self growth—even if that means learning how to be with yourself—time.

And, no,

It won’t be the same.

Hugs will feel better.

Hands will hold tighter.

And maybe we’ll remember what it took and who we became as a global community.