Let’s admit that it’s hard right now. Everyone has experienced these last 6 months differently. Some of us have been dealing with isolation and boredom. Some of us have immunocompromised people we worry about, or are immunocompromised ourselves. There are those of us who have lost jobs and worse. Even college students, who should be entering one of the most transformative and exciting periods of their lives, are stuck in their dorm room and vlogging their “unboxing” of meals, that quite honestly look pretty disappointing. And then of course, working parents…we’ve been tasked with the impossible tasks of working, teaching, and managing a household. We were tired before the pandemic, now all we want is to get back to where we were (and maybe sneak a nap in). 

We can say it — life sucks right now.  

Before we try to make anything better, we should take the time to grieve. Life doesn’t look like it’s going back to where it was anytime soon. This virus has changed all of our lives forever. It’s OK to feel sad, angry, frustrated — a myriad of feelings. 

I’ve seen many essays about the ridiculous pressures working parents are under — especially working mothers, who are picking up the majority of childcare and household duties. I don’t need to expand on how we are all feeling — like shit.

What I can say is I see you, and I feel you. And if given the opportunity, I will stand up for all of you. We’re doing our best, let’s make sure we take care of each other.

My own personal experience starts before the lockdown. I returned from maternity leave the first week of March. I was in the office for 8 days before being sent home due to COVID-19. Returning from a maternity leave is always a big adjustment — doing it while a global emergency is unfolding feels impossible. I had a 2.5 and 4 month old at home, while my husband and I tried to transition to working from home. He had support from his company, I did not.

It was one of the most stressful times in my life. Life changing, even if I can’t see the outcomes yet. But I know I will never treat anyone, no matter the situation, the way I was treated. We humans need to stand up for each other, even if it means the work bottom line takes a back seat for a second of two. Or more, whatever it takes. 

In the end I took a leave of absence to stay with my children until their daycare reopened. 

So, if you need someone to listen, empathize, and appreciate what you are going through, I am here. Let’s say it out loud — it SUCKS. 

But, I believe with my whole heart, we are going to come out stronger because of it. But for now, let’s just acknowledge our feelings and mourn the life we lost.