Pandemic Fatigue:

Pandemic Fatigue: a now pervasive condition for many suffering the long-term consequences of relentless surges and spikes from a disease that has either created a sense of cognitive dissonance in going about one's way and therefore contributing to further exacerbation of the problem or those who have surrendered to the kind of social isolation that leaves one wondering if we'll ever return to the freedoms of roaming city streets again. Congregating, and engaging with others in the kind of way that evokes a sense of wonder, camaraderie, piquing interests, laughing - a space open up to the unexpected, and the opportunities for more profound interpersonal connections over things that matter. A sense of belonging among strangers immersed in the deep crimson cushions sipping lattes around a hearth - flames spitting sparks, a refuge from the constant pelting rain often indecipherable between sleet. Despite its icy kisses leaving a rose-tinted patch on the cheeks and the constant drizzle, bangs protruding with icicles, a frothy mustache, a warming to the softness of a woolen scarf pulled up to embrace the ears like lying in the plushness of a down pillow and duvet. But, instead, heeding the calling, taking it to the streets outweighs those comforts in a sort of calculated way - always in favor of the experience of getting out and about, and the replenishment that comes from it like the first sips from a full cup, and it's more lasting effects.

So, after nine months of adjusting to the widespread, global news coverage at the onset of COVID-19 and it's ongoing documented impact, it's like the period in long-distance endurance events when it seems both unsurmountable and promising in looking back on progress compared with the present in how far we have to go in navigating through to post-crisis. A longing like the aching achilles and burning quads.

If at some point, there was a sense of lack - access to information, resources, time, there is an inverse when we trim off the daily commute, have limitations on physical world events, and the propensity to lose one's self in a deluge of information. Streams of content flowing at speeds converging through feeds, and inundating inboxes like a tsunami spiraling through an uncontrolled number of sources fueled by an insatiable desire to be connected.

The survival mode of addressing the crisis head-on through examining the most fundamental means begins with simple steps:

• Assessing health - From symptom checkers to more introspection over daily habits can be transformative when applied deliberately. It's the not-so-subtle difference between an accumulated habit and a more thoughtful approach towards rituals that rejuvenate
• Got skills? - If there was ever an awakening to the effects of modernization, it's when the world shuts down. Signing up for that course can be the beginning of a journey that opens up new doors beyond corridors to embark on crossing chasms
• What else? - The hours are filled; is there something more? Glimpses like snapshots between the reels of dreams and possibilities

Beyond the positive benefits of list-making and goal-setting: Approaching the holiday season with pandemic fatigue....

Imagining life post-pandemic is a creative process